16-17 May
Gifts
What was your last gift?
What is the best gift you have ever received?
Do you prefer giving or receiving gifts? Why?
What is the most meaningful gift you have ever given?
Do you think gifts should always be a surprise, or is it better to ask what someone wants and then choose a gift accordingly?
Have you ever received a gift that you didn’t like? What did you do?
What is a traditional gift in your country for birthdays or weddings?
Have you ever forgotten to buy a gift for someone? What happened?
Have you ever received a very unusual or funny gift? What was it?
If you could receive any gift right now, what would it be and why?
Related Words: present, surprise, celebration, birthday, wrapping, ribbon, package, gratitude, appreciation, generosity, giving, receiving, occasion, souvenir, keepsake, token, gesture, kindness, sharing, happiness, joy, memory, thoughtful, special, unique, handmade, luxury, tradition, exchange, delight
Watch the video above and discuss what you learned from it during your Spoken Cafe session
The Creative Power of Showers: How Taking a Break Can Boost Your Creativity
Showers aren’t just important for maintaining hygiene—they also play a surprising role in sparking creativity. According to a 2012 study published in the journal Psychological Science, taking a break after a difficult task can help improve problem-solving abilities.
In the study, researchers gave volunteers creative problems to solve and then allowed them a period of rest. Some participants were assigned challenging tasks during their rest period, while others were given simpler tasks that let their minds wander freely—much like how a shower might help clear your head. Interestingly, those who did simpler tasks were more likely to solve the original creative problems.
So, next time you’re feeling stuck or in need of a creative boost, consider stepping into the shower! It might be the perfect way to give your brain the break it needs to come up with fresh ideas.
READ/SPEAK
Are you a creative person? What are the most creative things you have ever done in your life?
Do you ever get creative ideas while taking a shower?
Where do you feel most creative—at home, at work, or somewhere else?
What helps you relax and clear your mind when you feel stuck?
Do you prefer to work on creative tasks in the morning or at night? Why?
What is your favourite way to take a break when working on something difficult?
What is the most creative thing you have ever done?
good luck
LEARN THE IDIOM AND SPEAK
Do you think you’re a lucky person? Why do you think that? Do you remember any incidents when you were very lucky? What happened and why were you so lucky?