Sample Answer for Task 1

The bar chart compares the 2012 spending habits of five European countries on six consumer goods: console games, outdoor game accessories, cosmetics, books, toys, and cameras. Overall, toys and cameras attracted the highest spending across the countries.

Britain was the highest spender, with over £160 million on cameras, followed closely by spending on console games and outdoor game accessories. Austria ranked second, with significant expenditure on console games, outdoor game accessories, and cosmetics, but lower spending on books, toys, and cameras. Spain spent the most on toys (slightly below £150 million) and substantial amounts on cameras. Belgium recorded the lowest overall spending, with relatively balanced expenditure across all six categories. Other countries showed varied preferences, but none matched Britain’s overall spending levels.

In summary, Britain led in spending across all categories, particularly on cameras, while Belgium spent the least, with toys and cameras being the most popular goods overall.

(178 words)

Sample Answer for Task 2

In many countries, people are spending less time with family due to work and study pressures, leading to significant negative effects on individuals and family relationships.

One primary reason is the demanding work schedules of adults. In countries like Japan, long working hours, often extending into the evening, leave little time for family activities such as shared meals or leisure. Similarly, children face intense academic pressure, particularly in Asian countries, where school, extracurricular classes, and homework consume most of their day. For example, students may spend 10 hours daily on education, limiting opportunities for family interaction.

This trend has detrimental effects. Children who lack family time may feel isolated, making them more vulnerable to social issues like bullying, which can lead to low self-esteem or depression. Additionally, reduced family bonding weakens relationships, widening the generation gap and causing conflicts. For instance, without regular communication, parents and children may struggle to understand each other’s perspectives, leading to unhappiness.

In conclusion, work and study demands reduce family time, negatively impacting children’s emotional well-being and family cohesion.

(282 words)