Speaking Test Part 2:

Model Answer:

I’d like to tell you about a good friend of mine, Mark, who I’ve known for several years now. He lives in my neighbourhood and we got to know each other because we’re both sports fans and take part in similar activities. He comes to mind because he is such a considerate person, and always tries really hard to put people at ease and make sure everyone around him is comfortable.

Mark is a really polite person. He’s patient and rarely gets angry with people, although if he’s provoked he will stand up for himself. Anyway, the main reason I think he is so polite is that he makes an effort to be nice and friendly. He asks a lot of questions, and is talkative, but not overbearing. 

Sometimes I joke that he should be called Mr Charming, because when you meet him he always has good things to say and looks for ways to compliment you. In fact, the last time I saw him he noticed that I'd lost some weight and noted how fit and healthy I was looking. That may sound a little creepy, but from Mark, you know that it's a sincere compliment, and that's all.

He’s also really thoughtful, and he’s very good at avoiding hurting people’s feelings. I think he has a lot of empathy for other people, and makes sure that he doesn’t upset or embarrass people by putting his foot in it and saying something inappropriate or upsetting.