speech

Question 1

what will you say in your introduction?

Answer 1

• thailand is the best country in the world.
• it is my home country, and it holds a very special place in my heart.
• however, it’s not just me that adores thailand - their beautiful culture, amazing food and kind, compassionate people are known across the globe.
• together, we will be explore these amazing qualities of the country I love in greater depth.

Question 2

what will you say in your first point?

Answer 2

• despite not participating in any major world wars, the Thai people can be fierce, determined and skilled when it comes to protecting their country.
• they are the only south-east Asian country to have never been colonised by Europeans, and in the centuries-old rivalry with Myanmar, have triumphed 24 times.
• however, the Thai people also have a kind, generous side, and this is evident when walking down a Thai street.
• shop-keepers compliment everyone that walks past, elderly couples leave out generous meals for strays, and young children run up to foreigners, offering them handcrafts and flower bouquets.
• can you say the same about your local high street?

Question 3

what will you say in your second point?

Answer 3

• the Thai’s talent when it comes to preparing mouth-watering dishes in unmatched.
• in a recent survey involving people from 130 countries, 63.5% of people voted that Thai food is the most delicious food in the world.
• Thailand can be dated as far back as 3000 B.C., resulting in a rich and sophisticated history and culture.
• for centuries, freedom of speech and religion, and respect and self-control have been core values that almost all Thai people have taken very seriously.
• for example, Thai dancing, known for its graceful and elegant manner, was influenced by Indian culture, but adapted to a more Thai manner over time. It used to only be performed in royal courts, as a symbol of respect and sincerity, but can now be seen all over Thailand.
• now, a popular Thai dance involves holding hands and dancing around a fire, symbolising unity and a tight bond withing the community.

Question 4

what will you say in your counter argument?

Answer 4

• many people may argue that England is a better country than Thailand.
• it has free healthcare, one of the best education systems in the world, and fish and chips. however, it’s been found to be the 2nd most miserable place in the world, after Uzbekistan.
• on the other hand, Thailand has an overall better quality of life - it has a very low cost of living (compared to England’s inflation problems), surveys have found that Bangkok is safer than London and other big cities, and the better weather and scenery overall boosts the citizens’ happiness.

Question 5

what will you say in your emotive angle?

Answer 5

• I recently overheard a group of people insulting Thailand, and dismissing it as ‘unhygienic’ and ‘unsafe’, which I found, and still find, absolutely appalling and disheartening.
• Thailand will always hold a special place in my heart, and I will continue to defend the considerate and kind people in whatever situation that may arise, as I am tired of people talking down on my country, labelling it as vulgar and dangerous.

Question 6

what will you say in your conclusion?

Answer 6

• I hope you leave today with a clearer idea surrounding thailand and its extravagant, magnificent culture, and, most importantly, with the belief that it is the best country in the world.

Question 7

‘What is the main religion in Thailand, and what is the significance of it?’

Answer 7

• 95% of people in Thailand practise Theravada Buddhism, therefore it plays a huge role in Thai society.
• It’s considered a philosophy for how to live one’s life, and it teaches Buddhists essential skills, such as tolerance and calmness.
• Buddhist monks will often be seen in streets and markets, collecting donations and offering blessings and aid to those in need, showing the compassion and gentleness possessed by all Thai people.

Question 8

‘What is ‘Song Kran’ Day in Thailand?’

Answer 8

• ‘Song Kran’ Day is a Thai festival, and has been celebrated for several hundred years.
• The modern festival is usually celebrated from the 13-15 of April, the dates of the beginning of the Thai new year, and is considered one of the hottest days of the year, as this is when the sun is closest to the Earth.
• ‘Song Kran’ day is celebrated with a nationwide, friendly water-fight, where buckets of water, water balloons, and coloured sand are thrown on people, cars and houses, all accompanied by loud music.
• It’s immense fun, and it’s simply a day where people from all different backgrounds can unite and enjoy themselves together.