The words are synonyms, however I would use Obstruct for a physical issue (the tree is obstructing the road) whereas I would use Impede for something less tangible (My lack of fluency in Spanish is impeding my ability to communicate). However you can find plenty of examples where Impede is also used for a physical issue.

My litle note

In my trip to USA, I want to have fun, make new friends, visit wonderful places.

I have to to eat in good restaurants, know and proofed new foods.

In Brazil our typical food is rice and bean. Now I live in west central in Brazil, here we eat a lot of meat, I like to eat medium steak, but my wife likes to eat well done steak.

Near my city there are many farms, and many cows and horses.  On the weekends we always go to the farm of my aunt.

please help me to correct my TOEFL writing! Thank you in advance.

The lecturer argues that the reading passage’s assumptions of function of Great Zimbabwe is not convincing. This argues against the reading passage’s claim that scholars have been engaged in a debate of the primary function of the site.

First, the lecturer comments that the Great Zimbabwe was not an defensive fortress or refuge. He says that for the use of a fortress as a  refuge there should be a permanent source of water. However, the Great Zimbabwe does not have any source of water, and moreover there are no other defensive structures. This argues against the reading passage’s claim that the Great Zimbabwe may have been built as a refuge for citizens during war times due to the fact that it is difficult to attack because of their tall and thick large stone walls.

Additionally, the lecturer claims that the word “zimbabwe” means “houses of stone”. Moreover, he mentions that many scholars found that there were up to 2000 people who lived in the Great Zimbabwe. This challenges the reading passage’s point that the word “zimbabwe” means “ venerated houses” which means the houses or gravesites of important people , so it was a palace built for the royal family.

Lastly, the lecturer asserts that the Great Zimbabwe is not a religious place. Additionally, he comments that many scholars believe that a cave on the hill was used by the king to carry his voice to the valley. This rebuffs the reading passage’s point that the cave on a nearby hill has spiritual significance because it was the way to deliver a religious leader’s words to people by making it sound as if he were channeling the voice of a god.

When my sons graduated from university I gave them money to travel "outside" of North America. This was specifically to address what you state - that travelling broadens the mind and the perspective. They have both now travelled to more countries/continents than I have. It was a great way to spend my money.

Practice 04. My Mother and Her Job

Hi, I need help with my homework, I hope you could help me to correct my mistakes! Thank u : )

My mother opened a small clothing store in Tainan. Having her own clothing store has been her dream since she was young. The first thing she needs to do when she opens the door at 10 a.m. from Monday to Saturday is to make sure clothing is placed where it should be. For this job she needs to get to know her customers, so she remembers their names and what they might be interested in. Using their names when talking to them can make the experience more personal and inviting. If the customers ask her what might match with so and so clothing she always gives helpful advice to them. She really loves and enjoys her job. Someday I wish I could be a competent career woman like her.