Cue Card

Describe a book you read that you found useful

You should say:

• What the book was about
• When you read it
• Why you think it’s useful
• And explain how you felt about it.

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. What are the types of books that young people like to read?
2. What’s the difference between the reading habits of old people and young people?
3. What’s the difference between paper books and e-books?
4. Some people say that it’s easier for children to succeed if they learn to read at a younger age. Do you agree?

Sample Cue Card Answer

I'm going to talk about a book that changed my perspective on life. It's not a self-help book, nor is it a memoir. It's a book that made me realize the importance of human connection. The book is 'The Stranger' by Albert Camus. Now, you might be thinking, 'Isn't that a classic novel about alienation and absurdism?' And you're right, it is. But what struck me was how the protagonist, Meursault, navigates a world that's devoid of empathy. He's a character who's been conditioned to suppress his emotions, to the point where he's numb to the world around him.

What resonated with me was how Meursault's story is a reflection of our society today. We're so caught up in our own worlds, our own problems, that we forget to acknowledge the people around us. We're all Meursaults, in a way, trying to find meaning in a seemingly meaningless world. But what Camus shows us is that even in the darkest of times, there's always a glimmer of hope. And that hope comes from human connection.

The book taught me that it's okay to be vulnerable, to show emotions, to be human. It's okay to not have all the answers. Meursault's story is a powerful reminder that we all need each other, that we all need someone to talk to, to listen to us, to understand us. And that's what I think is missing in our world today – empathy, compassion, and understanding.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

Numb to the world

To be emotionally numb means to be unresponsive to the world around you, often due to trauma, stress, or emotional exhaustion.

After the breakup, she felt numb to the world, like nothing mattered anymore.

The constant stress at work made him numb to his surroundings.

Devoid of empathy

Lacking the ability to understand and share the feelings of others.

The politician's response to the crisis was devoid of empathy, leaving many feeling unheard.

The company's policy was devoid of empathy, prioritizing profits over people.

Sample Part 3 Answers

What are the types of books that young people like to read? From my experience, young people today are really into reading books that are relatable and authentic. They want to see themselves in the stories they read, and they want to be able to connect with the characters and their struggles. That's why books like 'The Hate U Give' by Angie Thomas and 'The Fault in Our Stars' by John Green are so popular among young readers. These books tackle tough topics like racism, police brutality, and mortality in a way that's honest and accessible. Young people appreciate the fact that these books don't shy away from the complexities of life, and that they offer a platform for marginalized voices to be heard. By reading these types of books, young people can gain a deeper understanding of the world around them and develop empathy for others.

What’s the difference between the reading habits of old people and young people? One of the main differences between the reading habits of old people and young people is the way they consume information. Older people tend to prefer physical books and often stick to what they know and love, like classic novels or non-fiction books on history or science. They might also prefer to read at a slower pace, savoring the words and reflecting on the content. On the other hand, young people are more likely to read digitally, whether it's on their phones, tablets, or e-readers. They're also more open to discovering new authors and genres, and they often read at a faster pace, devouring books in a matter of days. This difference in reading habits is largely due to the way technology has changed the way we access and interact with information.

What’s the difference between paper books and e-books? For me, the main difference between paper books and e-books is the sensory experience. When I read a paper book, I love the feel of the pages between my fingers, the smell of the paper, and the sound of the pages turning. It's a tactile experience that I find really comforting. On the other hand, e-books are more convenient and portable, allowing me to carry multiple books with me wherever I go. However, I find that I retain information better when I read physical books, possibly because the physical act of turning pages helps me to better absorb the information. That being said, e-books have their own advantages, like adjustable font sizes and built-in dictionaries, which can make reading more accessible for people with disabilities.

Some people say that it’s easier for children to succeed if they learn to read at a younger age. Do you agree? I completely agree that learning to read at a younger age can have a significant impact on a child's future success. When children learn to read early, they develop a strong foundation in language and literacy, which can help them to excel in school and beyond. Reading also opens up a world of possibilities for children, exposing them to new ideas, cultures, and perspectives. Moreover, research has shown that children who learn to read early are more likely to develop a love of reading that can last a lifetime, which can have a positive impact on their mental and emotional well-being. By teaching children to read at a young age, we can give them the tools they need to succeed and thrive in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

relatable

able to be understood and shared by others

The book was relatable because it dealt with real-life issues.

The characters in the story were relatable, making it easy to connect with them.

authentic

genuine and true to one's nature

The author's authentic voice shone through in the writing.

The story was authentic, reflecting the author's real-life experiences.

marginalized voices

the voices and perspectives of people who are excluded or overlooked by society

The book gave a platform to marginalized voices, amplifying their stories and struggles.

The author's work highlights the importance of listening to marginalized voices.