Group 1: Comparing Generations and Changing Preferences
Questions
- Why are some people well-rounded while others are only good at one thing?
- How do young and old people use mobile phones differently?
- What are the differences between the technology of the past and that of today?
- What are the differences between old and young people when using apps?
- How have people’s opinions about the “perfect job” changed compared to the past?
- Do you think there was more physical labor in the past than there is now?
- What’s the difference between the things valued by people in the past and those valued today?
- What are the differences between the things old people keep and those young people keep?
- What are the differences between the things that people keep today and the things that people kept in the past?
- What’s the difference between the reading habits of old people and young people?
- Do women smile more than men? Why?
- Do people smile more when they are younger or older?
- Why do old people prefer to live in quiet places?
Vocabulary
- generational gap
- digital natives
- older generation
- younger generation
- changing lifestyle
- value practicality
- be attached to
- have different priorities
- pace of life
- adapt to change
Useful Phrases
- There is a clear generational difference in terms of…
- Younger people tend to…, whereas older people are more likely to…
- Compared with the past, people nowadays…
- One major shift is that…
- Their preferences are shaped by…
- It largely depends on age, lifestyle, and personal priorities.
- Older people often place more value on…, while younger people focus more on…
- This reflects a broader social change.
Idiomatic Expressions
- times have changed — society is different now
- keep up with the times — stay modern
- old habits die hard — older people may resist change
- from one generation to the next — across age groups
Questions
- Do you think modern technology (like TV and smartphones) helps or hurts people’s imagination?
- What are the advantages and disadvantages of using technology in education?
- What important piece of technology do you think will be common in homes in the future?
- What positive and negative impacts do mobile phones have on friendships?
- Is it a waste of time to take pictures with mobile phones?
- Do you think it is necessary to have laws on the use of mobile phones?
- Why do you think some people feel anxious when they cannot use their phones?
- Can you suggest some effective ways to help people reduce their screen time?
- Why do some people not like using apps?
- What kinds of apps are most popular among young people in your country?
- Do you think mobile apps have made our lives easier or more complicated?
- What should people pay attention to when downloading a new app?
- Do you think we will use more or fewer apps in the future? Why?
- What kinds of things are popular on social media?
- Do you think the definition of “fame” has changed in the age of social media? How?
- Do you think pictures and videos in news reports are important?
Vocabulary
- screen time
- digital addiction
- privacy concerns
- user-friendly
- information overload
- social validation
- online content
- spread information
- rely heavily on
- improve efficiency
Useful Phrases
- Technology is a double-edged sword.
- It makes life more convenient, but it also creates new problems.
- People have become increasingly dependent on…
- One obvious benefit is that…
- On the downside,…
- It can be harmful when people overuse it.
- People should be more aware of privacy and security issues.
- In the long run, technology is likely to…
Idiomatic Expressions
- be glued to one’s phone — use a phone constantly
- at people’s fingertips — easy to access
- scroll mindlessly — keep browsing without purpose
- go viral — spread very quickly online
Group 3: Education, Learning, and Child Development
Questions
- How do children become smart at school?
- In your opinion, what is more important in solving problems, intelligence or experience?
- What kind of encouragement should parents give?
- What are the qualities of a good teacher?
- Why do some children not like learning science at school?
- Is it important to study science at school?
- How do you get to know about scientific news?
- Do you think music is beneficial for children at school?
- What can people learn from songs or poems?
- Do you think it is important for children to learn history at school?
- Why is it important for people (especially children) to learn about family history?
- When do children normally form their own views?
- Should parents require their children to obey them?
- Do you think children adapt to new things more easily than adults?
Vocabulary
- critical thinking
- curiosity
- learning environment
- hands-on activities
- academic pressure
- broaden one’s horizons
- practical knowledge
- self-discipline
- encouragement and support
- develop independence
Useful Phrases
- Children learn best when…
- A supportive environment plays a key role.
- It is not just about intelligence; effort matters as well.
- Schools should encourage students to…
- This subject helps children develop…
- Parents need to strike a balance between… and…
- Early education has a long-term impact on…
- Children are naturally curious, so…
Idiomatic Expressions
- learn by doing — learn through practice
- open one’s mind — broaden thinking
- pick things up quickly — learn fast
- lay the foundation for — build a base for future growth
Group 4: Work, Careers, Leadership, and Business
Questions
- Why does modern society need talents of all kinds?
- How can leaders encourage their employees?
- Do you think some people are better than others at persuading?
- What are the personalities of people whose job is to give advice to others?
- What jobs do children want to do when they grow up?
- Do you think it’s easy for people to find their ideal job? Why or why not?
- What is more important for job satisfaction: a high salary or good relationships with colleagues?
- What kinds of jobs require a lot of physical work?
- How do leaders get along with their subordinates?
- Which is better, being a communicator or a listener?
- What qualities does a person need to have to be a good communicator?
- Would you like to start a family business?
- What are the advantages and disadvantages of family businesses?
- Would you like to work for a family business?
- Why do some people choose to start their own company?
- What family businesses do you know in your local area?
- What makes a successful family business?
Vocabulary
- leadership skills
- work-life balance
- job satisfaction
- career path
- entrepreneurial spirit
- communication skills
- mutual trust
- team morale
- professional advice
- workplace relationships
Useful Phrases
- Different jobs require different skill sets.
- A good leader knows how to motivate people.
- Job satisfaction does not depend solely on salary.
- People often choose a career based on…
- Running a business involves both risks and rewards.
- Strong communication is essential in the workplace.
- A healthy working relationship can improve efficiency.
- Not everyone is suited to leadership or self-employment.
Idiomatic Expressions
- climb the career ladder — progress in one’s career
- work hand in hand — cooperate closely
- be cut out for — be naturally suited to
- call the shots — make the decisions
Questions
- How do artworks inspire people?
- How do artists acquire inspiration?
- What kinds of movies do you think are successful in your country?
- What are the factors that make a successful movie?
- Do Chinese people prefer to watch domestic or foreign movies?
- Do you think only well-known directors can create the best movies?
- Do you think successful movies should have well-known actors or actresses in leading roles?
- Why do people prefer to watch movies in the cinema?
- Do you believe movie reviews?
- What are the different types of films in your country?
- Are historical films popular in your country? Why?
- Do you think films with famous actors or actresses are more likely to be successful?
- Why are Japanese animated films so popular?
- Should directors pay a lot of money to famous actors?
- Is a good storyline important for a movie?
- What kind of music is popular in your country?
- What kind of music do young people like?
- What kind of music do children like today?
- What types of books do young people like to read?
Vocabulary
- storyline
- visual effects
- box-office success
- emotional connection
- catchy melody
- cultural influence
- artistic expression
- target audience
- star power
- strong plot
Useful Phrases
- A successful film usually depends on several factors.
- A good storyline is the heart of any movie.
- Famous actors can attract attention, but they are not everything.
- People are drawn to content that they can relate to.
- Music can shape people’s emotions and mood.
- Artistic works often reflect society and culture.
- Audience preferences vary depending on age and taste.
- Reviews can be helpful, but they are not always reliable.
Idiomatic Expressions
- steal the show — be the most impressive part
- strike a chord with people — emotionally connect with them
- have mass appeal — attract many people
- be all the rage — be very popular
Group 6: Family, Friendship, and Social Relationships
Questions
- Do you think people who like to smile are more friendly?
- Why do most people smile in photographs?
- In what situations is it inappropriate to smile?
- Do you think smiling can actually make people feel happier? Why?
- Do you think a child’s relationship with friends can be replaced by relationships with other people, like parents or other family members?
- What are the differences between friends made inside and outside the workplace?
- Do you think it’s possible for bosses and their employees to become friends?
- Do you think it is important for us to get along with different kinds of people?
- What are the most enjoyable parts of having a meal together with your family?
- What topics do young people like to talk about?
- What are the differences between talking with friends online and face-to-face?
- What are the differences between online and in-person meetings in a company?
- Why do some young people refuse to communicate with others?
Vocabulary
- social bond
- emotional support
- face-to-face interaction
- workplace boundary
- mutual understanding
- first impression
- social skills
- shared interests
- sense of belonging
- quality time
Useful Phrases
- Good relationships are built on trust and communication.
- Face-to-face interaction is usually more personal and effective.
- Friends and family play different roles in a person’s life.
- A smile can create a positive impression, but context matters.
- People need a sense of belonging and emotional support.
- Workplace friendships can be helpful, but boundaries are important.
- Online communication is convenient, but it can feel less genuine.
- Social interaction is an important part of daily life.
Idiomatic Expressions
- get along with — have a good relationship with
- break the ice — make people feel more comfortable
- have a lot in common — share similar interests
- keep in touch — stay connected
Group 7: Decision-Making, Advice, Planning, and Time Management
Questions
- What activities do we need to plan ahead for?
- What kinds of decisions do you think are meaningful?
- Do people like to ask for advice about their personal lives or their work?
- Why do people like to ask others for advice?
- What do people normally plan in their daily lives?
- What changes do people often make?
- Why are people often late for meetings or appointments?
- Are people in your country often late for meetings?
- How do people learn to wait?
- Why are some people unwilling to wait?
- How can people prepare before going to stay in a foreign country?
- What would happen if no preparation were made before a trip?
Vocabulary
- plan ahead
- make adjustments
- long-term consequences
- seek advice
- manage time
- be punctual
- preparation
- cultural differences
- practical arrangements
- weigh the options
Useful Phrases
- Some decisions can have a long-term impact on a person’s life.
- People usually ask for advice when they feel uncertain.
- Planning ahead can reduce stress and prevent problems.
- Being late is often caused by poor time management.
- Preparation is especially important when…
- People need to consider both practical and emotional factors.
- It is always better to be prepared than to deal with problems later.
- Good planning helps things run more smoothly.
Idiomatic Expressions
- think ahead — plan for the future
- leave something to the last minute — delay preparation
- weigh the pros and cons — consider both sides
- buy yourself time — create extra time to decide or prepare
Group 8: Environment, Transport, and Natural Places
Questions
- Do you think air pollution mostly comes from mobile vehicles?
- Do you think the government should encourage people to use bicycles? How?
- Why can recycling help the environment?
- What kinds of people like to visit natural places?
- What can people gain from going to natural places?
- Why do people like visiting places with trees or forests?
- How easy is it to travel around your country?
Vocabulary
- air pollution
- public transport
- eco-friendly
- carbon emissions
- protect the environment
- natural scenery
- mental relaxation
- reduce waste
- sustainable lifestyle
- outdoor activities
Useful Phrases
- It is one of the main sources of pollution.
- The government should take practical measures to…
- Recycling helps reduce waste and save resources.
- Natural places offer a break from city life.
- Spending time in nature can improve mental health.
- More people would cycle if the infrastructure were better.
- Environmental protection requires both policy and public awareness.
- Convenient transport can encourage tourism and mobility.
Idiomatic Expressions
- go green — live in a more environmentally friendly way
- get away from it all — escape from daily stress
- breathe fresh air — enjoy a cleaner environment
- do one’s part — contribute personally
Group 9: Buildings, Housing, History, and Cultural Value
Questions
- What types of buildings are popular in your country?
- Why do people like to visit historical sites?
- What are the challenges in preserving old or historical buildings?
- Do you think modern buildings will become as culturally valuable as ancient ones in the future?
- Which do most people prefer, living in a bungalow or in a tall building?
- Do different people have different preferences for houses or apartments?
- What do you think buildings will be like in the future?
Vocabulary
- historical value
- architectural style
- preserve heritage
- modern design
- living space
- urban development
- cultural significance
- maintenance costs
- convenience
- high-rise building
Useful Phrases
- Historical buildings are an important part of a country’s heritage.
- Different people have different housing needs.
- Modern buildings are often designed with efficiency in mind.
- Preserving old buildings can be expensive and challenging.
- Historical sites help people understand the past.
- Housing preferences usually depend on age, income, and lifestyle.
- Future buildings may be smarter and more environmentally friendly.
- There needs to be a balance between development and preservation.
Idiomatic Expressions
- stand the test of time — remain valuable for a long time
- part of one’s heritage — part of cultural background
- in the heart of the city — in a central area
- a place with character — a place with a unique style
Group 10: Culture, Traditions, Food, and Identity
Questions
- What kinds of things are kept in museums?
- What food do you eat on special occasions, such as during the Spring Festival or the Mid-Autumn Festival?
- Why do people like to have meals together during important festivals?
- Do people in your country value food culture?
- What do you think of national identity?
- What kinds of foreign food are popular in your country?
- What’s the difference between Chinese food and Western food?
- Do you think short-term visits can help people understand a different culture?
Vocabulary
- cultural identity
- traditional dish
- festive occasion
- family gathering
- local customs
- cultural exchange
- preserve tradition
- shared experience
- sense of identity
- cuisine
Useful Phrases
- Food is an important part of culture.
- Traditional festivals bring families together.
- Museums help preserve a society’s history and identity.
- National identity is shaped by history, language, and culture.
- Foreign food has become more popular because…
- A short visit can offer some exposure, but not deep understanding.
- Cultural understanding usually takes time.
- Sharing meals is a way of strengthening family bonds.
Idiomatic Expressions
- bring people together — unite people socially
- a taste of another culture — a small experience of another culture
- pass something down — transmit to the next generation
- feel at home — feel comfortable and connected
Group 11: Consumer Life, Toys, Advertising, and Everyday Products
Questions
- Is the way people buy things affected? How?
- Why do all children like toys?
- Do you think it is good for a child to always take his or her favorite toy with them all the time?
- Should advertising aimed at children be prohibited?
- What’s the difference between the toys boys play with and those girls play with?
- What are the advantages and disadvantages of modern toys?
- What kinds of things are more likely to be broken by people at home?
- What kinds of people like to fix things by themselves?
- Do you think clothes produced in factories are of better quality than those made by hand?
- Do people eat fast food at home?
Vocabulary
- consumer behavior
- advertising influence
- brand awareness
- mass-produced
- handmade products
- practical skills
- emotional attachment
- convenience
- product quality
- repair things
Useful Phrases
- Advertising can shape children’s preferences from an early age.
- Modern toys can be both educational and distracting.
- Some people prefer convenience, while others value quality.
- Handmade products often feel more personal.
- Many people like fixing things themselves to save money.
- Consumer choices are influenced by price, quality, and habit.
- Fast food is convenient, but it is not always healthy.
- Children can become overly dependent on a favorite toy.
Idiomatic Expressions
- catch someone’s eye — attract attention
- fall for advertising — be influenced by ads
- built to last — made with strong quality
- for the sake of convenience — because it is easier
Group 12: Success, Fame, Popularity, and Role Models
Questions
- What are the advantages and disadvantages of being a famous child?
- What are the factors that make a successful movie?
- Do you think films with many celebrities are more likely to be popular?
- Why are some students popular in school?
- Why are there so few top athletes?
- What kind of things are popular on social media?
- Do you believe movie reviews?
- Why are Japanese animated films so popular?
Vocabulary
- public attention
- role model
- popularity
- media exposure
- natural talent
- hard work and discipline
- social influence
- broad appeal
- stand out
- public pressure
Useful Phrases
- Popularity often comes from a combination of… and…
- Fame can bring both opportunities and pressure.
- Not everyone can reach the top level because…
- Public attention can affect children in different ways.
- Some people become popular because they are confident and sociable.
- Success usually depends on both talent and consistent effort.
- What is popular often reflects current trends.
- Social media can make fame come much faster than before.
Idiomatic Expressions
- be in the spotlight — receive a lot of public attention
- rise to fame — become famous
- stand out from the crowd — be noticeably better or different
- make a name for oneself — become well known
Group 13: Behavior, Character, Rules, and Personal Growth
Questions
- Why do we develop bad habits?
- What can we do to get rid of bad habits?
- What influence do children with bad habits have on other children?
- Do you think people should apologize for anything wrong they do?
- Do people in your country like to say “sorry”?
- On what occasions do people usually apologize to others?
- Why do some people refuse to say “sorry” to others?
- What can people learn from doing dangerous activities?
- Why are some people keen on doing dangerous activities?
- Do you think fear stops people from trying new things?
- How do you know when others are telling lies?
- Do you think it is more important to win a game or follow the rules in sports?
- What kinds of promises do people often make?
Vocabulary
- bad habits
- peer influence
- take responsibility
- admit mistakes
- self-control
- break a habit
- take risks
- personal growth
- follow the rules
- keep a promise
Useful Phrases
- Habits are often formed through repetition.
- It takes time and self-discipline to change behavior.
- Children are easily influenced by people around them.
- Apologizing shows maturity and responsibility.
- Some people avoid saying sorry because of pride.
- Taking risks can help people grow, but it also has dangers.
- Rules are necessary to keep things fair and safe.
- Trust depends on whether people keep their word.
Idiomatic Expressions
- own up to something — admit a mistake
- break a habit — stop doing a repeated bad behavior
- step out of one’s comfort zone — try something unfamiliar
- play by the rules — behave fairly and properly
Group 14: Travel, New Places, and Cross-Cultural Experience
Questions
- How can people prepare before going to stay in a foreign country?
- Do you think short-term visits can help people understand a different culture?
- How easy is it to travel around your country?
- What would happen if no preparation were made before a trip?
Vocabulary
- cultural differences
- local customs
- transportation system
- language barrier
- travel arrangements
- accommodation
- adapt to a new environment
- culture shock
- practical preparation
- travel experience
Useful Phrases
- People should do some research before they go.
- It is important to prepare both practically and mentally.
- Short trips can give people a general impression of a place.
- Travel becomes much easier when…
- Without proper preparation, people may run into problems.
- Understanding a culture takes more than just sightseeing.
- Learning some basic language can be very helpful.
- Travel can broaden people’s horizons.
Idiomatic Expressions
- hit the road — start a journey
- find one’s way around — move around a place successfully
- get a feel for — gain a basic understanding of
- run into problems — encounter difficulties
Group 15: Old Things, Memory, and Preservation
Questions
- What things do families keep for a long time?
- What kinds of old things do people like to keep?
- Why do people keep old things?
- What are the differences between the things old people keep and those young people keep?
- What are the differences between the things that people keep today and the things that people kept in the past?
- What kinds of things are kept in museums?
- Why is it important for people (especially children) to learn about family history?
Vocabulary
- sentimental value
- family heirloom
- preserve memories
- historical artifact
- personal belongings
- emotional attachment
- pass down
- family tradition
- remind someone of
- cultural memory
Useful Phrases
- People keep old things for emotional rather than practical reasons.
- Some items carry special memories.
- Old objects can tell stories about a family or a society.
- Museums preserve objects that have historical or cultural value.
- Younger people may keep digital memories, while older people often keep physical items.
- These items help people stay connected to the past.
- Family history can give children a stronger sense of identity.
- Not everything old is valuable, but some things are meaningful.
Idiomatic Expressions
- hold on to — keep something
- bring back memories — remind people of the past
- pass down from generation to generation — transfer within a family
- full of meaning — deeply significant