Part of the ielts speaking Test Yourself 13 Reading Your Family 14

6. What sorts of things do you like to do together?
Well, we frequently have dinner together. You know, in China, food is an important

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aspect of our culture. Meals on the weekend are a great chance for all of us to chat and catch up
with each other. In addition, we often watch TV, especially the NBA on Sunday morning with my
Dad. We are both big basketball fans. We support different teams, and
sometimes we make some bets on the games. Occasionally the three of us go for a walk or
go shopping. We used to go to the cinema a lot, but now that I am in college, we have less
time to do that.
7. Did you have a lot of contact with your grandparents when you were a child?
Yes, when I was a child I used to see my grandparents on a daily basis, because they
used to live with us. I guess that when I was very young, my parents needed someone to look
after me since they were both busy with their job. My grandpa passed away a few years
ago, and my grandma is our neighbor now. My Dad bought the apartment next door for her
to be with us whenever she feels like it.
8. Is it common for grandparents to live with their children and grandchildren in
your country?
Yes, definitely. It’s very common. In China, children take it as their responsibility
to look after their parents when they get old. In addition, nowadays, because both parents
often work, grandparents can lend a hand when it comes to raising the kid in the family.
Hiring a nanny costs money, and putting a child in a day-care center is not that popular so popular)
here.
9. What part do grandparents play in family life in your culture?
As I told you, grandparents are very important in my culture. The whole family listens
to and respects the grandparents’
points of view. They are like the wise people in the house.
In addition, these days, they play a major role in the family, because they very often get to
raise the child when both parents are working.