Cue Card

Describe a difficult challenge you had

You should say:

• What it was
• When it was
• What the challenge was
• And explain how you overcame it.

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. Do you think parents should let their children solve problems by themselves?
2. What challenges do you think children might have to face?
3. What’s the most challenging thing for kids?
4. Can parents reduce the number of challenges that kids have? How?

Sample Cue Card Answer

I'll never forget the summer I spent working on a remote island, trying to set up a sustainable energy system for the local community. It was a challenging project, not just because of the technical difficulties, but also because of the isolation. I was the only engineer on the team, and the rest of the crew were all local workers who didn't speak much English. I had to navigate not only the technical aspects of the project but also the cultural and language barriers.

The biggest hurdle was trying to convince the local workers to adopt new technology. They were used to doing things a certain way, and it was hard for them to understand why we needed to change. I had to find ways to communicate complex technical concepts in simple terms, and also to address their concerns about job security and tradition.

But the real challenge came when we encountered a major setback. A critical piece of equipment failed, and we had to wait weeks for a replacement to arrive. The local workers were frustrated, and morale was low. I had to think on my feet and come up with a plan to keep the project moving forward, even with limited resources.

It was a tough few weeks, but we finally managed to get the system up and running. The sense of accomplishment was incredible, and the local community was thrilled to have a reliable source of energy. Looking back, I realize that the biggest challenge wasn't the technical difficulties, but the human factor. It was a valuable lesson in the importance of communication, adaptability, and perseverance.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

think on my feet

to think and react quickly in a difficult or unexpected situation

I had to think on my feet when the equipment failed and come up with a plan to keep the project moving forward.

navigate

to find a way through a difficult situation or problem

I had to navigate not only the technical aspects of the project but also the cultural and language barriers.

setback

a problem or difficulty that delays or prevents progress

We encountered a major setback when the equipment failed.

Sample Part 3 Answers

Do you think parents should let their children solve problems by themselves? I think it's essential for parents to give their children the autonomy to solve problems on their own, but with guidance and support. When kids are allowed to navigate challenges independently, they develop critical thinking skills, build confidence, and learn from their mistakes. However, it's also crucial for parents to be available to offer guidance and reassurance when needed. By striking a balance between independence and support, parents can help their children develop problem-solving skills and a growth mindset. For instance, when I was a kid, my parents encouraged me to take on small challenges, like solving a puzzle or completing a project, and they were always there to provide guidance and encouragement when I got stuck. This approach helped me develop a sense of self-reliance and resilience that has served me well into adulthood.

What challenges do you think children might have to face? Children today face a multitude of challenges that can impact their emotional, social, and academic development. One of the significant challenges kids might encounter is bullying, which can take many forms, from physical to cyberbullying. Bullying can lead to feelings of isolation, low self-esteem, and even depression. Another challenge kids might face is the pressure to perform academically, which can be overwhelming and lead to stress and anxiety. Additionally, kids may struggle with social media, which can create unrealistic expectations and promote comparison and competition. Furthermore, some children may face challenges at home, such as poverty, divorce, or parental substance abuse, which can affect their emotional well-being and stability. It's essential for parents, educators, and caregivers to be aware of these challenges and provide support and resources to help kids navigate them.

What’s the most challenging thing for kids? I think one of the most challenging things for kids is navigating the complexities of social relationships. As children grow and develop, they must learn to interact with their peers, make friends, and manage conflicts. This can be especially difficult for kids who are shy, introverted, or struggle with social anxiety. Moreover, the rise of social media has added a new layer of complexity to social relationships, as kids must navigate online interactions, cyberbullying, and the pressure to present a perfect online image. Additionally, kids may struggle with feelings of inadequacy or low self-esteem, which can make it harder for them to form and maintain healthy relationships. It's essential for parents and caregivers to provide guidance, support, and positive role-modeling to help kids develop the social skills and emotional intelligence they need to thrive.

Can parents reduce the number of challenges that kids have? How? While parents can't eliminate all challenges, they can certainly reduce the number of challenges kids face and help them develop the resilience to overcome obstacles. One way parents can do this is by creating a safe and supportive home environment, where kids feel comfortable expressing themselves and seeking help when needed. Parents can also model healthy coping mechanisms, such as mindfulness, self-care, and problem-solving strategies, to help kids develop these skills. Additionally, parents can stay involved in their child's life, attending school events, volunteering in the classroom, and engaging in open and honest communication with their child. By being present and engaged, parents can help identify potential challenges early on and provide targeted support to help their child overcome them. Furthermore, parents can encourage kids to take calculated risks, try new things, and view failures as opportunities for growth and learning. By adopting this approach, parents can help kids develop a growth mindset and build the resilience they need to navigate life's challenges.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

strike a balance

to find a middle ground or compromise between two opposing things

She had to strike a balance between work and family life.

The government needs to strike a balance between economic growth and environmental protection.