Part 1
Examiner
Did you have any opportunities to take part in new activities as a child?
Candidate
When I was a child I was able to do different things like ballad dances. I also play a piano.
Examiner
Should people try as many different things as they can?
Candidate
Yes, I believe that people should try as many different things as they can, especially when we talk about sport and everything that is connected with sport because when you train you're more disciplined and motivated to do as many things as you can in your daily routine.
Did you have any opportunities to take part in new activities as a child?
Score: 62.0Suggestion: Answer the question directly with a clear topic sentence, then add one or two specific details. Use the correct past tense: “played,” not “play,” and the natural expression “played the piano,” not “played a piano.” Also, “ballad dances” is unclear; if you mean a traditional or folk dance, say “folk dancing.” Connect your ideas with a linking word such as “For example.”
Example: Yes, I had several opportunities to try new activities as a child. For example, I took folk-dance classes and learned to play the piano. I enjoyed both activities because they helped me become more creative and confident.
Should people try as many different things as they can?
Score: 68.0Suggestion: Give a clear opinion first, then support it with one focused reason and a specific example. The answer is understandable, but it is too repetitive: “try as many different things as they can” and “do as many things as you can” are repeated. “When we talk about sport” and “everything that is connected with sport” are also vague. Use more natural and precise phrases such as “trying different sports can improve discipline” and explain the result clearly.
Example: Yes, I think people should try a variety of activities, especially different sports. Taking part in sports can make people more disciplined because they have to follow a regular training schedule. For instance, someone who joins a swimming club may become more motivated and organized in their daily life.
× I also play a piano.
✓ I also played a piano.
Because the student is talking about childhood, the past tense played is required instead of the present tense play.
× I also play a piano.
✓ I also played the piano.
When referring to playing a musical instrument in general, English normally uses the definite article the: play the piano. The article a is not appropriate here.