Tag: Speaking

IELTS Speaking Part 3 questions related to other cultures

The examiner can ask some questions about other cultures if your cue card was related to cultural differences or foreign countries. Let’s look at some possible questions which may be asked in part 3 of the speaking test.

Other cultures

Q. 1: How important is it to learn about other people’s cultures?

Answer: Learning about other people’s cultures is very important in today’s globalised world. Cultural knowledge is required everywhere, be it business or travel or work. If we are familiar with the culture of a place, we can understand people better. This will make our work and life easier in a new place.

Q. 2: What difficulties can people living in a foreign country experience?

Answer A: In my view, the biggest problem which expats face is understanding the local language and culture. Loneliness, finding schools for their children, not getting food of their choice and the weather are some other common difficulties which people experience in a new country.

Answer B: I believe the most significant difficulties about living in a foreign country would have to do with understanding cultural norms and unspoken rules, especially during social interactions. Misunderstandings can be common phenomena. Generally fitting in as well as feeling like you belong would be another big challenge.

Q. 3: What benefits can there be for people working in a foreign country?

Answer: Working in a foreign country offers both personal and economic benefits to people. At a personal level, they can enjoy a higher standard of living. Their knowledge about cultural differences and languages also develops. Professionally, the work environment gives them greater exposure, which improves their professional skills. More importantly, international work experience which people gain is highly valued by employers.

A global culture

Q. 4: Do you believe in stereotypes about different nationalities?

Answer: It’s a difficult question. In my view, the nationality and character of a person are two different things. Stereotypes about different nationalities are just based on people’s observations. They may or may not be accurate. I think that stereotypes don’t reflect reality. So, I don’t believe in them.

Q. 5: Are you in favour of adopting a universal language?

Answer: Certainly, adopting a global language would make our life easier. But, languages and cultures are inextricably intertwined. So, if we choose to have a common language, the cultural diversity will disappear. The loss will be irreparable. I don’t think it’s a wise idea to adopt a universal language.

Q. 6: What negative effects might come from a country losing its traditional cultures?

Answer: The loss of traditional cultures can affect a country in many ways. If there are businesses based on traditional skills, cultural loss can affect the economy of a country. Since traditional cultures represent a country, major changes in cultures can have an impact on tourism in that country.

Meanings of high-level words

expat: someone who does not live in their own country