IELTS Speaking Book 9 Test 1

Part 1: Games

1. What games are popular in your country? Why?

   • Popular games in my country include football and cricket. These games are loved because they promote teamwork and are exciting to watch and play.

2. Do you play any games? [Why/Why not?]

   • Yes, I play football occasionally because it helps me stay fit and I enjoy playing with my friends.

3. How do people learn to play games in your country?

   • People usually learn to play games in school during physical education classes or by watching and imitating others.

4. Do you think it's important for people to play games? [Why/Why not?]

   • Yes, playing games is important because it promotes physical health, improves mental well-being, and teaches valuable social skills like teamwork and cooperation.

Part 2: Describe an open-air or street market which you enjoyed visiting

• Where the market is: The market is located in the city center near the main square.

• What the market sells: It sells a variety of items such as fresh produce, handmade crafts, clothes, and street food.

• How big the market is: The market is quite large, with over 100 stalls spread across the square.

• Why you enjoyed visiting this market: I enjoyed the lively atmosphere, the diversity of products, and the opportunity to try local food.

Part 3: Discussion Topics

Shopping at markets

1. Do people in your country enjoy going to open-air markets? [Why?]

   • Yes, people enjoy going to open-air markets because they can buy fresh, local products and find unique items that are not available in regular stores.

2. Which type of market is more popular? Why?

   • Food markets are more popular because people like buying fresh vegetables, fruits, and meats directly from local farmers.

3. Do you think markets are more suitable places for selling certain types of things? Why?

   • Yes, markets are better for selling fresh produce, handmade crafts, and vintage items because they offer a more personal and authentic shopping experience.

4. Do young people feel the same about shopping at markets as older people? Why?

   • Young people tend to prefer modern shopping malls, but some appreciate markets for their unique finds and eco-friendly, local products.

Shopping in general

1. What do you think are the advantages of buying things from shops rather than markets?

   • Shops often provide better product guarantees and return policies, and they are more convenient for regular purchases.

2. How does advertising influence what people choose to buy? Is this true for everyone?

   • Advertising plays a big role in influencing people's choices, especially for younger consumers. However, some people are less influenced and focus on their actual needs.

3. Do you think any recent changes in the way people live have affected shopping habits? Why?

   • Yes, online shopping has become more popular because it's convenient and allows people to compare prices and read reviews easily.

### **Part 1: Games**

1. **What games are popular in your country? Why?**

   - In my country, cricket and football are the most popular games. Cricket, in particular, is almost a national obsession due to its historical significance and the high-profile nature of the sport, with many international and domestic competitions held regularly. Football has also gained popularity because it is fast-paced, requires minimal equipment, and can be played almost anywhere. Both these sports promote a sense of community and national pride.

2. **Do you play any games? [Why/Why not?]**

   - Yes, I play football occasionally with my friends. I find it a great way to stay physically fit and mentally refreshed. Apart from the physical exercise, I enjoy the teamwork aspect, where players must collaborate and strategize to win. It’s also a fun way to socialize and build stronger bonds with my friends.

3. **How do people learn to play games in your country?**

   - In my country, many people learn to play games during their school years in physical education classes, which introduce children to different sports and activities. Outside of school, children often learn from older siblings, parents, or peers in informal settings like parks or playgrounds. Moreover, there are many local sports clubs and academies where children can receive professional coaching if they wish to pursue the sport more seriously.

4. **Do you think it's important for people to play games? [Why/Why not?]**

   - Absolutely. Playing games is vital for both physical and mental well-being. They not only improve fitness but also help in developing essential life skills such as teamwork, leadership, and discipline. Moreover, games offer a form of stress relief, as they allow people to unwind and momentarily forget their daily challenges. Sports also foster a sense of community and belonging, which can be beneficial for emotional health.

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### **Part 2: Describe an open-air or street market which you enjoyed visiting**

One of the most memorable open-air markets I’ve visited is the **La Boqueria Market**, located in the heart of Barcelona. The market is famous for its vibrant atmosphere and wide variety of products, ranging from fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood to unique local delicacies and handmade crafts. I visited this market during a holiday trip last year, and it left a lasting impression on me.

**La Boqueria** is enormous, with hundreds of vendors packed into one sprawling area, each showcasing their products in the most appealing way. The market offers a sensory overload: the sight of colorful fruits stacked high, the sound of vendors shouting to attract customers, and the smell of fresh seafood mingling with the scent of sizzling street food.

What I enjoyed most about this market was the chance to experience the local culture firsthand. Every vendor I interacted with was friendly and willing to chat, giving me insights into their products and how they were made. I also indulged in some delicious local food, including fresh tapas and a refreshing fruit smoothie. The lively, bustling environment, combined with the variety of things to see and taste, made it an unforgettable experience.

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### **Part 3: Discussion Topics**

#### **Shopping at Markets**

1. **Do people in your country enjoy going to open-air markets? [Why?]**

   - Yes, people in my country do enjoy going to open-air markets. One reason is the freshness of the produce available, as many vendors bring items directly from farms. Additionally, these markets offer a wide variety of products, including handmade crafts and traditional foods, which are not easily found in supermarkets. The overall experience of haggling with vendors and exploring the market gives a sense of excitement that regular stores don’t provide.

2. **Which type of market is more popular? Why?**

   - Food markets tend to be more popular in my country, mainly because people prefer to buy fresh, locally grown produce directly from farmers. The quality and freshness are unmatched compared to supermarkets. Additionally, some food markets offer traditional homemade products such as cheeses, sauces, and baked goods, which attract people looking for authentic, regional flavors.

3. **Do you think markets are more suitable places for selling certain types of things? Why?**

   - Yes, markets are especially suitable for selling fresh produce, artisanal goods, and handmade items. Fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats benefit from the quick turnover and local sourcing that markets provide. Handmade crafts and artisanal products also fit well into a market setting because they allow buyers to interact with the creator directly, adding a personal touch to the shopping experience.

4. **Do young people feel the same about shopping at markets as older people? Why?**

   - Generally, young people may not appreciate markets as much as older generations, who often prefer the personal interactions and the traditional shopping experience that markets provide. Younger individuals tend to value convenience and may lean toward shopping malls or online stores. However, with the rise of eco-consciousness and the desire to support local businesses, more young people are becoming interested in markets, especially for organic products and handmade goods.

#### **Shopping in General**

1. **What do you think are the advantages of buying things from shops rather than markets?**

   - Shopping from stores offers a sense of convenience and reliability. Many shops provide warranties, return policies, and fixed prices, which can give consumers peace of mind, especially when buying expensive or high-tech products. Additionally, stores often have a broader selection of branded and international goods, which may not be available in local markets.

2. **How does advertising influence what people choose to buy? Is this true for everyone?**

   - Advertising has a significant influence on consumer choices, often creating a desire for products that people may not have initially needed. It builds brand awareness and shapes public perception through celebrity endorsements, emotional appeals, or promises of enhanced lifestyle. While this works for many people, particularly younger consumers, some individuals may be less influenced and instead prioritize their own needs or product quality over marketing.

3. **Do you think any recent changes in the way people live have affected shopping habits? Why?**

   - Definitely. With the advent of online shopping, many people prefer to buy products from the comfort of their own homes. This shift is driven by convenience, the ability to compare prices, and the vast range of products available online. The COVID-19 pandemic also accelerated the growth of e-commerce, as people sought contactless shopping methods. Additionally, sustainability concerns are making people more conscious about their purchases, leading to an increased preference for local and eco-friendly products.

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