What would be the best and worst things about spending a year with a family abroad? Use the prompts below and your own ideas.

Speaking Strategy:

Use your preparation time well. Read the task carefully. Then think of one thing to say about each topic. If you have more time, think of more ideas.

Possible Discussion Points:

Best Things:

• Exchange programmes: Opportunity to experience a new culture and education system.
• Gaining confidence: Becoming more independent and self-assured through new experiences.
• Making new friends: Expanding social circle and learning to connect with people from different backgrounds.
• Speaking a foreign language: Achieving fluency and improving communication skills.
• Eating different food: Discovering new tastes and culinary traditions.
• Going to a different school: Adapting to a new learning environment and meeting new teachers and students.
• Visiting different places: Exploring the local area and learning about its history and attractions.
• Watching foreign TV programmes: Improving language comprehension and understanding local culture through entertainment.

Worst Things:

• Missing family / friends / home: Feeling homesick and isolated from loved ones.
• Language barrier: Difficulty in communication, which can lead to frustration and misunderstandings.
• Cultural differences: Challenges in adapting to new customs, social norms, and ways of life.
• Adjusting to a new school: Difficulty in making friends, understanding the curriculum, or dealing with academic expectations.
• Unfamiliar food: Disliking local cuisine or having dietary restrictions that are hard to manage.
• Weather or climate: Difficulty in adjusting to a significantly different climate.
• Homesickness: The emotional toll of being away from familiar surroundings and support systems.