3.5.- Speaking: asking for opinions, suggestions and disagreeing and test part 3

What does it make you feel happy?

Read the following dialogue in which two students are discussing important factors in happiness.

Anna: So, we’re talking about what contributes most to happiness. Let’s start with success in studies or at work. How do you feel about this one?

 

Ben: Well, I’d say it’s important to some extent. Achieving goals can definitely give you a sense of purpose. But it’s not everything.

 

Anna: I take your point, but if someone is miserable at work or under pressure at school, success might not lead to happiness at all.

 

Ben: True. I’d go along with you there. Success without balance can become stressful.

 

Anna: Shall we move on to the next one? Living a healthy lifestyle?

 

Ben: Oh, absolutely. Physical health affects your mood, energy, even your confidence.

 

Anna: That’s just what I was thinking too. And mental health goes hand in hand with it. If you’re healthy, you’re more likely to enjoy other aspects of life.

 

Ben: Agreed. Okay, what are your thoughts on this one—perceiving beauty in nature and the arts?

 

Anna: Hmm, I think I’d be more inclined to see this as a bonus rather than a key factor. It enriches life but isn’t essential for everyone.

 

Ben: Let’s leave that one for now. How about coping with life’s problems as they arise?

 

Anna: Super important. Life’s full of challenges, and how we deal with them really shapes our happiness.

 

Ben: Definitely. Resilience makes such a difference.

 

Anna: Last one—having good relationships with family and friends. I’d say this is the most important of all.

 

Ben: Totally. That’s just what I was thinking too. You can have everything else, but without good relationships, it’s hard to feel truly happy.

 

Anna: So, to sum up, we agree relationships, health, and resilience are probably the top three?

 

Ben: Yep, I’d say so. Shall we leave it there?

Exercise 1 on page 29

Second Part of Exercise 1 on page 29

https://wordwall.net/es/resource/91125594

Spending Easter Holidays in Cancun: Different Options and the Best Choice

 

1. Relaxing at a Beach Resort

Argument:

Cancun is world-famous for its stunning beaches like Playa Delfines and Playa Norte. Staying at a luxurious all-inclusive resort allows visitors to fully relax, enjoying amenities such as spa treatments, gourmet food, and private beaches.

Why it's good for Easter:

After the spiritual reflection of Lent and Easter celebrations, it’s fitting to embrace renewal and rest in a peaceful, beautiful environment.

 

2. Exploring Mayan Ruins and Culture

Argument:

Sites like Chichen Itza, Tulum, and Coba offer a deep dive into ancient Mayan civilization. Easter often inspires people to reflect on history, heritage, and deeper meanings — making cultural exploration a perfect complement to the season.

Why it's good for Easter:

Experiencing ancient temples and sacred sites can deepen one’s sense of wonder and respect for human history, aligning with Easter’s themes of rebirth and continuity.

 

3. Adventure Tourism: Snorkeling, Diving, and Cenotes

Argument:

Cancun is a gateway to adventure: snorkeling in coral reefs, diving in underwater caves (cenotes), or zip-lining through jungles.

Why it's good for Easter:

Easter is a celebration of new life — and there’s nothing more life-affirming than the thrill of adventure, exploring nature's hidden marvels.

 

4. Participating in Local Easter Celebrations

Argument:

Mexico has vibrant and meaningful Easter traditions, including reenactments of the Passion of Christ, processions, and festivals. Cancun, though touristy, still offers opportunities to witness or even join these events in nearby towns.

Why it's good for Easter:

Immersing oneself in local traditions can make Easter more meaningful and memorable, connecting with the deeper spiritual side of the holiday.

 

5. Going to Church

Argument:

Many churches in Cancun, such as Parroquia de Cristo Resucitado or Iglesia de Nuestra Señora del Carmen, hold beautiful Easter services.

Why it's good for Easter:

Attending Mass or a special Easter service provides a true spiritual connection to the meaning of the holiday — celebrating resurrection, hope, and renewal in a community of faith.

 

Reading Practice

Article: Embodying Lasallian Values in Collaborative Discussions

 

When preparing for the CAE Speaking Test Part 3, candidates often focus solely on linguistic accuracy and fluency. However, integrating deeper values—such as those inspired by the Lasallian tradition—can enhance both the quality of the interaction and the interpersonal dynamics during the task. The Lasallian values, which include faith in the presence of God, concern for the poor and social justice, respect for all persons, quality education, and inclusive community, offer a meaningful framework for respectful and impactful communication.

 

In Part 3 of the CAE Speaking Test, candidates are asked to engage in a collaborative task. This involves discussing several options related to a prompt and reaching a decision together. While it’s crucial to articulate ideas clearly and use a range of expressions, it's equally important to demonstrate active listening, empathy, and mutual respect—traits directly aligned with Lasallian principles.

 

For example, the value of respect for all persons encourages speakers to acknowledge their partner’s contributions and to build on their ideas rather than dominate the conversation. Similarly, fostering an inclusive community means ensuring both speakers are equally involved and that differing viewpoints are welcomed and discussed constructively.

 

Practising quality education in this context doesn’t refer merely to academic achievement but also to the development of communicative competence and ethical responsibility. Using the CAE task as an opportunity to grow not just as a speaker but as a global citizen reflects the holistic spirit of Lasallian pedagogy.

 

Ultimately, when candidates bring these values into their preparation and performance, they’re not only more likely to impress examiners but also to engage in meaningful, authentic dialogue—something far more valuable than a certificate alone.

Reading Comprehension Exercise:

https://www.topworksheets.com/t/EWKq5uX813i

Video of the CAE speaking test part 3

Collaborative exercises 3 and 4 on page 29