Cue Card (Part 2) – Sample Question:

Describe an expensive gift that you would like to give someone if you could save a lot of money. You should say:

What the gift is

Who the person you would like to give it to is

Why you think it would be a special gift for them

And explain why you would like to save money to buy this gift

Sample Answer:

If I were able to save a significant amount of money, I would love to give the gift of an all-expenses-paid vacation to my parents. This would include flights, accommodation, meals, and activities for a two-week trip to a destination of their choice, such as a tropical island or a European city.

My parents have always been incredibly supportive and have worked hard to provide for our family, often sacrificing their own desires and needs for the sake of their children. They have not had the opportunity to travel extensively or take many vacations, as they have always prioritized our education and well-being.

I believe this gift would be special for them because it would not only be a well-deserved reward for their years of hard work and dedication, but also an opportunity for them to relax, explore new cultures, and create lasting memories together. Moreover, it would show my appreciation for everything they have done for me and demonstrate my desire to give back to them in a meaningful way.

I would like to save money to buy this gift because it is something that I know my parents would truly appreciate and enjoy, but might not be able to afford on their own. By saving money and planning this trip for them, I could help make their dream vacation a reality and express my gratitude for all the love and support they have given me throughout my life.

Part 3 – Sample Questions and Answers:

Q: Why do people give gifts to others?

A: People give gifts to others for various reasons, including to express love, appreciation, or gratitude, to celebrate special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, or holidays, and to strengthen relationships and bonds with friends and family members. Giving gifts can also be a way to provide support, comfort, or encouragement during difficult times, or to share in the joy and success of others.

Q: How do cultural factors influence the types of gifts people give and receive?

A: Cultural factors can greatly influence the types of gifts people give and receive, as different cultures may place different values on certain items, symbols, or gestures. For example, in some cultures, it is customary to give money or gold as a wedding gift, while in others, handcrafted items or household goods may be more appropriate. Additionally, cultural norms and etiquette may dictate how gifts should be presented, received, or reciprocated, and may influence the significance and meaning attached to certain types of gifts.

Q: What are the advantages and disadvantages of giving expensive gifts?

A: Giving expensive gifts can have both advantages and disadvantages. On the one hand, expensive gifts can be seen as a gesture of generosity, love, or appreciation, and may be highly valued or cherished by the recipient. They can also create a lasting impression and contribute to the strengthening of relationships. On the other hand, expensive gifts can sometimes create feelings of obligation, guilt, or discomfort, particularly if the recipient is unable to reciprocate with a similarly valuable gift. Additionally, the focus on material value may detract from the emotional or sentimental significance of the gift and may lead to unrealistic expectations or comparisons in the future.

Q: How important is the monetary value of a gift in relation to its emotional significance?

A: While the monetary value of a gift can play a role in its perceived worth, the emotional significance of a gift is often more important in determining its true value and impact on the recipient. A thoughtful, personalized, or sentimental gift, regardless of its cost, can hold greater meaning and evoke stronger emotions than a more expensive but impersonal item. Ultimately, the most memorable and cherished gifts are those that reflect the giver’s understanding, care, and appreciation for the recipient, rather than simply their financial investment.

Q: How can gift-giving contribute to personal and social well-being?

A: Gift-giving can contribute to personal and social well-being by fostering positive emotions, strengthening relationships, and promoting feelings of gratitude, generosity, and interconnectedness. Giving and receiving gifts can create a sense of happiness, satisfaction, and appreciation, both for the giver and the recipient, and can help to establish or reinforce bonds between individuals, families, and communities. Moreover, the act of giving can promote empathy, altruism, and compassion, encouraging people to consider the needs and desires of others and to derive pleasure from contributing to their happiness and well-being.

Q: Do you think the tradition of gift-giving will change in the future?

A: The tradition of gift-giving may evolve in the future as societal values, priorities, and technologies change. For example, as people become more environmentally conscious and aware of the impact of consumerism, there may be a shift towards giving more sustainable, ethical, or experiential gifts. Additionally, advancements in technology and the rise of digital platforms may lead to an increase in virtual or personalized gifts, such as custom-designed products, digital art, or online experiences. However, the fundamental purpose and significance of gift-giving – to express love, appreciation, and connection – are likely to remain unchanged.

Q: How do people’s preferences for gifts change as they grow older?

A: As people grow older, their preferences for gifts may change due to factors such as shifting priorities, interests, and values. For example, children and teenagers may be more interested in receiving toys, gadgets, or fashionable clothing, while adults may appreciate more practical or sentimental items, such as household goods, experiences, or personalized keepsakes. Additionally, older individuals may place greater importance on the emotional significance of a gift and the thoughtfulness of the giver, rather than the material value or novelty of the item. These changes in preferences may be influenced by factors such as personal growth, life experiences, and the development of deeper relationships and connections with others.