Speaking part 1: Geography & maps

1, Have you ever studied geography at school?

Absolutely, I’ve been learning geography ever since grade 4 at primary school. In my country, Geography is one of the mandatory subjects that students need to study. It is also one subject that is included in the national exams.

2. Do you think learning geographic knowledge is useful for you?

Of course, I would contend that learning geography has helped me in various aspects in real life. For example, some skills taught in geography class are really practical, such as map-reading skills, or navigation skills. Once I master those, I’d be able to travel anywhere without being afraid of getting lost.

3. How often do you use maps on your phone?

Pretty regularly, I’d say. I’m not really good at remembering routes around my city so the digital map on my smartphone has proven to be really useful. whenever I get around, especially in the Old Quarter, I need to open the Google map application to navigate the way to my destination, or else, I would spend hours just wandering around in vain.

4. What is the difference between mobile maps and paper maps?

Obviously there are clear differences between digital maps and physical maps. From my experience, I’ve found mobile maps more user friendly than the traditional ones as they possess real-time location and also provide vocal instruction which are really useful for a road-blind person like myself.