Cambridge IELTS 9 Speaking Test 1

• In my country, a variety of games are popular, ranging from traditional sports like cricket and football to more modern video games such as PUBG and Fortnite. The popularity of these games stems from their ability to bring people together, provide entertainment, and foster healthy competition.
• Yes, I do play games. I find them to be a great way to unwind and relax after a busy day. Additionally, playing games allows me to socialize with friends and family, whether it’s through online gaming or traditional board games.
• People in my country learn to play games through various means. For traditional sports like cricket or football, many start at a young age by playing informally with friends and then progress to joining school teams or local clubs. As for video games, individuals often learn through trial and error, online tutorials, or by playing with more experienced gamers.
• Yes, I believe it’s important for people to play games. Apart from being a source of enjoyment and relaxation, games help develop important skills such as strategic thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, and hand-eye coordination. Moreover, games can act as a social glue, bringing people of different backgrounds together and fostering camaraderie. Overall, playing games can contribute positively to both personal development and social interaction.

• The open-air market that I thoroughly enjoyed visiting is the Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok, Thailand. This bustling market is located in the northern part of the city and spans over 35 acres, making it one of the largest markets in the world.
• Chatuchak Weekend Market offers a wide range of products, from clothing and accessories to handicrafts, souvenirs, home decor, and even pets. The market is divided into sections, each specializing in different types of goods, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.
• What I found most fascinating about this market is its vibrant atmosphere and diversity. Walking through the maze of stalls, I encountered a plethora of colors, smells, and sounds, creating a sensory overload in the best possible way. The market is always bustling with locals and tourists alike, adding to its lively ambiance.
• One of the reasons I enjoyed visiting Chatuchak Weekend Market is the opportunity to experience authentic Thai culture. From sampling delicious street food to haggling with vendors for unique finds, every interaction felt like an adventure. Moreover, the market provides a glimpse into the daily lives of Thai people, showcasing their creativity, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurial spirit.
• Overall, my visit to Chatuchak Weekend Market was a memorable experience filled with excitement and discovery. It’s a place where I could immerse myself in the vibrant tapestry of Thai culture while indulging in shopping and culinary delights. Whether you’re a tourist looking for souvenirs or a local seeking a weekend outing, this market never fails to captivate and delight.

Shopping at Markets:

• In my country, people do enjoy visiting open-air markets, especially those that offer a variety of goods like food, clothes, and unique items. While both food and clothing markets are popular, I’d say food markets tend to be more favored. This is because food markets offer a wide range of fresh produce and local delicacies, providing a sensory and culinary experience that appeals to a broader audience.
• Yes, I believe markets are more suitable for selling certain types of things, particularly goods that have a tactile or experiential aspect. For example, fresh food products like fruits, vegetables, and meats are best sold at markets where customers can inspect the quality firsthand. Similarly, handmade crafts and artisanal items thrive in market settings where artisans can interact directly with customers, showcasing their skills and passion.
• Generally, I think young people and older people may have different attitudes towards shopping at markets. Younger generations might be more drawn to markets for the experience, social aspect, and the hunt for unique finds. On the other hand, older individuals might appreciate markets for their traditional charm, nostalgic value, and the opportunity to support local vendors. However, there can be exceptions, as individual preferences and interests vary across age groups.

Shopping in General:

• Buying things from shops often provides a more streamlined and convenient experience, with fixed prices, guaranteed quality, and return policies. Additionally, shops may offer a wider range of branded or specialized products that may not be available at markets. Moreover, shopping in shops can save time and effort, especially for individuals looking for specific items or brands.
• Advertising plays a significant role in shaping consumer preferences and purchasing decisions by creating awareness, shaping perceptions, and influencing desires. While advertising can sway many people’s choices, its impact varies depending on factors such as individual susceptibility, preferences, and socio-economic background. Some people may be more susceptible to advertising messages, while others may rely more on personal recommendations, reviews, or other sources of information.
• Yes, recent changes in lifestyle, technology, and consumer behavior have indeed influenced general shopping habits. The rise of e-commerce and online shopping, for example, has made it more convenient for people to shop from the comfort of their homes, leading to changes in traditional retail models and consumer preferences. Additionally, factors such as urbanization, changing demographics, and sustainability concerns have also impacted shopping habits, with more emphasis on convenience, personalized experiences, and ethical consumption.