Toefl Speaking- Topic- live in a big city, a small town, or a village
Interviewer: Thank you for speaking with me today. I’m conducting a study about people’s experiences and perceptions of living in a city. I’d like to ask you some questions. [2-second pause] Now, do you currently live in a big city, a small town, or a village?
Interviewer: Great. Cities affect people in different ways. Some people find cities dynamic and exciting. Others find that cities are overwhelming and drain them of energy. What kind of reaction do you have to cities? Why do you think you react in this way?
Interviewer: OK. Next, I’d like to ask your opinion. Some people believe that those who live in cities lead more interesting lives. They would argue, for example, that people who live in cities have more access to professional opportunities and interesting leisure activities. Do you agree that people who live in cities lead more interesting lives? Why or why not?
Interviewer: Good points. Let me ask you one final question. For some time now, researchers have been interested in whether green spaces, such as parks, make people who live in cities happier. Do you think that city governments should create more parks in urban areas to promote a general sense of happiness and life satisfaction? Why or why not?
🎤 Question 1 – Where do you live?
Currently, I live in a big city, and it plays a meaningful role in my daily life. Generally, city life keeps me motivated and engaged. When I experience this environment regularly, I notice steady growth in my independence and confidence. It not only provides better career opportunities but also exposes me to diverse cultures and perspectives. Of course, living in a city can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially during rush hours, but gradually I adapt to the fast pace. For example, when I first moved here, I felt stressed, but over time I became more comfortable and confident. So overall, living in a big city has positively shaped my development.
🎤 Question 2 – Your reaction to cities
Personally, I have a positive reaction to cities, although they can sometimes feel intense. Generally, I feel energized by the fast-paced atmosphere and the ambition around me. When I spend time in urban areas, I become more focused and productive. It not only influences my mood but also encourages me to set higher goals. Of course, traffic and noise can be stressful, especially during busy hours, but over time I learn how to manage them effectively. For example, when I adjusted my daily routine, I felt less pressure and more organized. So overall, I see cities as exciting and inspiring rather than exhausting.
🎤 Question 3 – Do city people lead more interesting lives?
I agree that people who live in cities often lead more interesting lives. First, cities generally offer a wide range of professional opportunities and leisure activities. When individuals live in urban areas, they gradually gain exposure to diverse experiences and cultures. Second, city life encourages social interaction and personal growth over time. However, some people believe that cities can be stressful and crowded. Even so, I think the long-term benefits are more significant. For example, when I moved to the city, I became more independent and socially active. So overall, I strongly believe city life can be more dynamic and engaging.
🎤 Question 4 – Should governments build more parks?
Yes, I believe city governments should create more parks in urban areas. One important reason is that green spaces significantly improve mental well-being. When residents spend time in parks, they usually feel more relaxed and less stressed, especially in busy cities. Another reason is that parks promote physical activity and social interaction, which gradually strengthen community connections. Of course, building parks requires financial investment, but in the long run the benefits are greater. For example, when a new park opened near my neighborhood, people became more active and positive. So overall, I strongly believe more parks can promote happiness and life satisfaction.