Cue Card

Describe a city that you would recommend as a nice place to live (not your hometown)

You should say:

• where it is
• what it is like
• what you know about it; and
• explain why you would recommend it.

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. Where do people like to live in your country?
2. Why do many people move to cities?
3. What are the advantages of living close to your workplace?
4. Where do old people prefer to live?

Sample Cue Card Answer

Portland, Oregon - the city that stole my heart. I mean, what's not to love? The food trucks, the coffee, the beer - it's like a never-ending festival. But seriously, Portland has this infectious energy that makes you want to get out and explore. From the Japanese Garden to the Saturday Market, there's always something new to discover. And the people? Forget about it. Portlanders are the ultimate chill vibe. They're all about that 'keep it weird' life, and I am here. for. it.

One of the things that really drew me to Portland was the community. Everyone's so passionate about what they do, whether it's brewing beer, baking bread, or making art. It's inspiring to be around people who are so dedicated to their craft. And the city's got this awesome small-town feel, even though it's actually pretty big. You can walk or bike almost anywhere, and there's always something going on, whether it's a concert, a protest, or just a random Tuesday.

Of course, like any city, Portland's got its flaws. The traffic can be a nightmare, and the housing market's crazy competitive. But for me, the pros far outweigh the cons. Plus, have you seen the views of Mount Hood? It's like having a postcard-perfect backdrop to your daily life. All in all, Portland's the perfect blend of quirky, creative, and just plain cool. If you ever get the chance to visit - or better yet, move there - I highly recommend it. Trust me, you won't regret it.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

stole my heart

to win someone's love or affection

The city stole my heart with its beauty and charm.

The food at that restaurant stole my heart - I'm never eating anywhere else!

keep it weird

to maintain a quirky or unconventional attitude or lifestyle

Portland's all about keeping it weird.

I love that coffee shop - they're all about keeping it weird.

small-town feel

a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, typical of a small town

Despite being a big city, Portland's got a great small-town feel.

I love visiting my hometown - it's got such a great small-town feel.

Sample Part 3 Answers

Where do people like to live in your country? You'll find that many people in the United States are drawn to cities with a great balance of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and urban amenities. One city that comes to mind is Portland, Oregon. Located in the Pacific Northwest, Portland is nestled near the Columbia River and surrounded by lush forests, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The city itself has a unique vibe, with a thriving food truck scene, a variety of breweries, and a strong sense of community. Plus, it's relatively easy to get around without a car, thanks to the city's public transportation system and bike-friendly infrastructure. All these factors combined make Portland a very attractive place to live, with a great quality of life.

Why do many people move to cities? I think many people move to cities because they offer a level of diversity and cultural richness that's hard to find in smaller towns. Cities are often hubs for art, music, and food, with a wide range of restaurants, museums, and performance venues to choose from. Take a city like Austin, Texas, for example. It's known for its vibrant music scene, with festivals like SXSW and the Austin City Limits Music Festival drawing in visitors from all over the world. But it's not just the entertainment options that make cities appealing – they also tend to have more job opportunities, especially in fields like tech and entrepreneurship. Plus, cities often have a more fast-paced, dynamic energy that can be really inspiring and motivating for people who thrive in that kind of environment.

What are the advantages of living close to your workplace? Living close to your workplace can have a huge impact on your overall quality of life. For one thing, it saves you time and money on commuting, which can be a huge stress reducer. Imagine being able to walk or bike to work every day, getting some exercise and fresh air along the way. It's also great for the environment, since you're not contributing to traffic congestion or air pollution. But beyond the practical benefits, living close to work can also make it easier to achieve a better work-life balance. You can pop home for lunch, attend to personal errands during the day, or even squeeze in a workout before or after your shift. It's a game-changer for people who value flexibility and convenience.

Where do old people prefer to live? As people age, they often prioritize accessibility, affordability, and a sense of community when it comes to where they live. One city that stands out in this regard is Asheville, North Carolina. Asheville has a reputation for being a welcoming and inclusive place, with a strong sense of small-town charm. It's also relatively affordable compared to other cities in the US, with a range of housing options available. Plus, the city has invested heavily in making its public spaces and amenities accessible to people of all ages and abilities. For example, the River Arts District is a former industrial area that's been revitalized with shops, galleries, and restaurants – and it's all easily walkable. Asheville also has a strong focus on healthcare, with a number of high-quality hospitals and medical facilities in the area.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

a great balance

a situation in which different things are in harmony with each other

The city has a great balance of natural beauty and urban amenities.

She's found a great balance between work and play.