EF p 9. Ex 2e. Parents should never try to be their children’s friends. Speaking Sample

Student A:

So, the statement we’re discussing is “Parents should never try to be their children’s friends.” That’s quite a bold idea — I mean, it sounds rather absolute. (1)__________ (PERSON), I’d say I agree to some extent. After all, parents are supposed to set boundaries and act as role models, not simply hang out with their kids like friends. If they become too familiar, it might undermine their authority.




Student B:

Hmm, I see what you mean, but I’m not entirely convinced. Being (2)______________ (APPROACH) and friendly doesn’t (3)_____________ (NECESSITY) mean losing control. In fact, when children feel understood and listened to, they’re often more willing to follow rules. Wouldn’t you agree that mutual respect can come from (4)____________ (FRIEND) as well?




Student A:

Yes, to a certain extent, that’s true. I do think trust and communication are essential, but I worry that trying too hard to be a “friend” could blur the boundaries. I mean, if parents stop acting like parents, who will children turn to for (5)__________ (GUIDE) and structure?




Student B:

I get your point, though I’d say it’s possible to strike a balance. Parents can show empathy without giving up their authority. Having said that, I think it depends a lot on the child’s (6)________________ (MATURE) and personality. Don’t you think younger children need clearer rules than teenagers?




Student A:

Absolutely, that’s a fair observation. I agree in principle, but it’s not always easy to adapt your (7)_____________ (PARENT) style. Teenagers, for example, often reject authority, so being a bit more of a friend might actually keep the lines of communication open.




Student B:

Yes, I see where you’re coming from. At the same time, I think parents should avoid becoming overly (8)_______________ (PERMIT). There’s a difference between being (9)________________ (UNDERSTAND) and being indulgent. Would you say there’s such a thing as being too friendly with your child?




Student A:

Definitely. There’s a fine line, isn’t there? I agree to a certain extent, but if the friendship starts to (10)________________ (SHADOW) the parental role, that’s where problems begin. In the long run, children still need guidance, discipline, and boundaries to feel secure.




Student B:

I completely agree with that. So, at the end of the day, maybe the best approach is for parents to be friendly, not friends. That way, they can maintain respect while still building trust and (11)_________________ (OPEN).




Student A:

Exactly. So I guess we both believe the ideal parent is approachable yet (12)_______________ (AUTHORITY) — someone who listens like a friend but leads like a parent.

 

 

 

 

KEY 

 

 

 

1. Personally 

 

 

 

 

 

2. approachable 

 

 

 

 

3. necessarily 

 

 

 

 

 

4. friendship 

 

 

 

 

5. guidance 

 

 

 

 

 

6. maturity 

 

 

 

 

7. parenting

 

 

 

 

 

8. permissive 

 

 

 

 

 

9. understanding 

 

 

 

 

10. overshadow 

 

 

 

 

11. openness 

 

 

 

 

12. authoritative