Questions

1. Are you able to fix things that are broken?
2. Did anybody teach how to fix things when you were a child?
3. Do you think it’s necessary for people to learn how to repair things?
4. What do you do when something is broken and cannot be fixed?

Sample Answers

Are you able to fix things that are broken? Well, I'd say I'm pretty handy when it comes to fixing everyday household items, like leaky faucets or loose door handles. I think it's because I've had a lot of experience helping my dad with DIY projects around the house when I was growing up. He taught me the basics of plumbing and carpentry, and I've been able to apply those skills to fix things on my own. Of course, if it's something more complex like a broken appliance, I'd probably call a professional. But for simple tasks, I'm confident in my ability to fix things.

Did anybody teach how to fix things when you were a child? My dad was actually the one who taught me how to fix things when I was a kid. He's a bit of a handyman himself, and he always encouraged me to get my hands dirty and learn how to do things on my own. I think it's because he wanted me to be self-sufficient and not have to rely on others to fix things for me. He'd often say, 'If you can't fix it, you can't use it,' which I think is a pretty good motto to live by.

Do you think it’s necessary for people to learn how to repair things? Absolutely, I think it's essential for people to learn how to repair things. Not only does it save you money in the long run, but it also helps reduce waste and promotes sustainability. Plus, when you know how to fix things, you develop a sense of pride and accomplishment that comes with being able to fix something with your own two hands. It's a valuable skill that can be passed down to future generations, and it's something that I think is often overlooked in today's throwaway society.

What do you do when something is broken and cannot be fixed? Honestly, it's always frustrating when something breaks and can't be fixed. But I try to be practical about it. If it's something that's truly beyond repair, I'll try to find a creative way to repurpose it or upcycle it into something new. For example, if an old t-shirt is beyond repair, I might turn it into a reusable bag or a cleaning rag. If that's not possible, I'll try to responsibly dispose of it and consider replacing it with something more sustainable or eco-friendly.

Key Phrases and Idioms

get your hands dirty

to participate in an activity that involves physical work or getting involved in something in a practical way

I had to get my hands dirty and help my dad with the gardening.

She's not afraid to get her hands dirty and try new things.

pass it down

to give something to someone, especially a skill or knowledge, so that they can use it in the future

My grandmother passed down her cooking skills to my mother.

He passed down his business to his son.

throwaway

something that is intended to be used once and then thrown away

The throwaway culture is contributing to the world's waste problem.

She's always buying throwaway fashion, which is so bad for the environment.