Cue Card

Describe a building you like

You should say:

• Where it is
• What it is used for
• What it looks like
• And explain why you like or dislike it

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. How do people in your country feel about old buildings?
2. Do old and young people in your country have the same attitudes towards old buildings?
3. Is it important to preserve old buildings? (Why?)
4. What aspect of culture do old buildings reflect?
5. How do old buildings affect the appearance of a place?

Sample Cue Card Answer

I'm obsessed with the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain. This building is a game-changer. The first time I saw it, I was blown away by its sleek, flowing design. It's like a spaceship landed in the middle of the city. The way the light reflects off its shimmering titanium panels is like nothing I've ever seen before. It's like the building is alive, changing colors and moods with the sun.

What I love most about the Guggenheim is how it's not just a building, it's an experience. The moment you step inside, you're transported to a world of art and imagination. The atrium is breathtaking – a massive, airy space that makes you feel like you're floating. And the exhibits? Mind-blowing. From Kandinsky to Koons, the art is always pushing boundaries and challenging your perceptions.

But what really gets me is how the building interacts with its surroundings. It's like it's having a conversation with the city. The way it curves and bends, echoing the shapes of the nearby river and hills. It's like the architect, Frank Gehry, took the very essence of Bilbao and turned it into a work of art. And the best part? It's not just a pretty face – it's also a symbol of the city's rebirth. After years of decline, the Guggenheim brought new life and energy to Bilbao, transforming it into a cultural hotspot.

For me, the Guggenheim is more than just a building – it's a reminder that architecture can be a powerful force for change. It shows us that even in the most unexpected places, beauty and innovation can thrive. And every time I see it, I'm inspired to think outside the box, to push the boundaries of what's possible.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

game-changer

something that completely changes a situation or activity

The new policy was a game-changer for the company.

The Guggenheim Museum is a game-changer in the world of architecture.

pushing boundaries

trying new and experimental approaches

The artist is known for pushing boundaries with her innovative use of materials.

The Guggenheim's exhibits are always pushing boundaries and challenging our perceptions.

Sample Part 3 Answers

How do people in your country feel about old buildings? In the United States, people have a deep appreciation for old buildings, especially those with historical significance. I think this is because these structures serve as a tangible connection to our past, allowing us to learn from and appreciate the experiences of previous generations. For instance, many old buildings have been beautifully restored and now house museums, galleries, or restaurants, which not only preserves their history but also makes them accessible to the public. As a result, people can walk through these buildings and imagine what life was like decades or even centuries ago, which I believe fosters a sense of nostalgia and respect for the past.

Do old and young people in your country have the same attitudes towards old buildings? While both old and young people in the US appreciate old buildings, I think their attitudes towards them differ slightly. Older generations tend to have a stronger emotional attachment to these structures, having grown up with them and often having personal memories associated with them. On the other hand, younger people may appreciate old buildings more for their aesthetic value, such as their unique architectural styles or the way they contribute to the character of a neighborhood. However, as younger people learn more about the history and cultural significance of these buildings, their appreciation for them often deepens, and they begin to see them as more than just beautiful relics of the past.

Is it important to preserve old buildings? (Why?) Preserving old buildings is crucial, in my opinion, because it allows us to maintain a sense of continuity with our past. These structures often serve as a physical representation of a bygone era, providing a window into the lives and experiences of people who came before us. By preserving them, we can learn from their successes and mistakes, and gain a deeper understanding of how our society has evolved over time. Moreover, old buildings can also play a significant role in shaping our sense of identity and community, as they often reflect the values and traditions of a particular region or culture. By preserving them, we can help to ensure that these aspects of our heritage are not lost over time.

What aspect of culture do old buildings reflect? Old buildings reflect the social, economic, and artistic values of a particular time and place. For example, the grandeur and opulence of a historic mansion might reflect the wealth and status of its former occupants, while a humble, rustic cabin might reflect the simplicity and resourcefulness of early settlers. Similarly, the architectural style of an old building can reveal the cultural influences that shaped its design, such as the Spanish colonial style of buildings in the Southwest or the Federal style of buildings in the Northeast. By examining these structures, we can gain a deeper understanding of the cultural context in which they were built and the people who built them.

How do old buildings affect the appearance of a place? Old buildings can greatly impact the appearance of a place, often adding a unique character and charm to a neighborhood or town. For instance, a historic downtown area with well-preserved 19th-century buildings can create a sense of warmth and authenticity, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. On the other hand, a city with a mix of old and new buildings can create a visually interesting and dynamic landscape, with the old buildings providing a sense of depth and history. In contrast, a place with no old buildings can feel sterile and lacking in character, which is why many cities are now making an effort to preserve and restore their historic structures.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

tangible connection

a physical object or experience that connects us to something or someone

These old buildings serve as a tangible connection to our past.

fosters a sense of

to promote or encourage a feeling or attitude

Walking through these buildings fosters a sense of nostalgia and respect for the past.

aesthetic value

the value of something based on its beauty or attractiveness

Younger people may appreciate old buildings for their aesthetic value.

bygone era

a past time period, especially one that is considered to be old-fashioned or outdated

These structures often serve as a physical representation of a bygone era.

sense of continuity

a feeling of connection or consistency between past and present

Preserving old buildings allows us to maintain a sense of continuity with our past.

shaping our sense of identity

influencing or forming our understanding of who we are and where we come from

Old buildings can help shape our sense of identity and community.

reflect the values

to show or demonstrate the values or principles of a particular time or culture

Old buildings reflect the social, economic, and artistic values of a particular time and place.

visually interesting

attractive or appealing to the eye

A city with a mix of old and new buildings can create a visually interesting landscape.