Cue Card

Describe a favorite song of yours

You should say:

• What the song is about
• When you listened to the song for the first time
• How often you listen to the song
• And explain why you think it’s your favorite

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. What type of songs are most popular among today’s young people in your country?
2. Why do you think pop music is so popular?
3. What kinds of songs do old people prefer?
4. Why is square dance music so loud?
5. Has your preference in music changed over the years?

Sample Cue Card Answer

I'm obsessed with 'Electric' by Alina Baraz feat. Khalid. It's one of those songs that instantly transports me to a different world. The moment the beat drops, I'm in a summer evening, driving down the Pacific Coast Highway with the windows rolled down, feeling the ocean breeze in my hair. The song has this effortless, laid-back vibe that's impossible to resist. Khalid's soulful voice is like butter for my ears - smooth, rich, and utterly captivating.

What I love most about 'Electric' is its ability to evoke a sense of freedom. The lyrics are all about embracing the moment, letting go of your worries, and living life on your own terms. It's a song that makes you want to move your body, to let the music take control, and to lose yourself in the rhythm. And that's exactly what I do every time it comes on - I let go of my inhibitions and let the music electrify me.

The production quality is also insane. The way the synths and drums come together to create this infectious energy is pure magic. It's like a masterclass in building tension and release. The drop is always unexpected, yet perfectly timed, leaving you breathless and wanting more. I've lost count of how many times I've listened to this song, but it never gets old. In fact, it's one of those rare tracks that gets better with each listen, revealing new layers and textures that I hadn't noticed before.

For me, 'Electric' is more than just a song - it's an experience. It's a feeling, a mood, a state of mind. It's a reminder to live in the moment, to let go of my fears, and to trust the universe. And that's what I love about music - its ability to transcend words, to speak directly to our souls, and to evoke emotions that we can't quite put into words. So, if you haven't listened to 'Electric' yet, do yourself a favor and press play. Trust me, you won't regret it.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

effortless

requiring no apparent effort or difficulty

The song has an effortless, laid-back vibe.

She has an effortless style that makes her look like a supermodel.

butter for my ears

something that is extremely pleasing or enjoyable to hear

His voice is like butter for my ears.

The sound of the ocean waves is like butter for my ears.

lose yourself in the rhythm

to become completely absorbed in the music and let go of your inhibitions

I lost myself in the rhythm of the song and started dancing.

The crowd lost themselves in the rhythm of the music and sang along.

Sample Part 3 Answers

What type of songs are most popular among today’s young people in your country? From what I've observed, today's young people in the US are really into hip-hop and electronic dance music. I think it's because these genres are all about energy and self-expression. Hip-hop, in particular, has become a cultural phenomenon, with many young people relating to the stories and emotions expressed in the lyrics. It's not uncommon to see a crowd of teenagers singing along to the latest rap hit at a music festival or concert. The beats are catchy, the rhymes are clever, and the messages often speak to the hopes and struggles of growing up.

Why do you think pop music is so popular? I think pop music is so popular because it's just so catchy and upbeat. It's the kind of music that makes you want to get up and dance, or sing along at the top of your lungs. But beyond that, I think pop music taps into our desire for escapism. We all need a break from the stresses of everyday life, and pop music provides a welcome distraction. It's often about love, heartbreak, and relationships – universal themes that we can all relate to. Plus, pop stars like Taylor Swift and Katy Perry are masters at crafting songs that are both personal and universal at the same time.

What kinds of songs do old people prefer? From what I've noticed, older people tend to prefer more mellow, nostalgic music – think classic rock, jazz, or oldies from the 50s and 60s. I think this is because these genres often evoke a sense of nostalgia and familiarity. The music of our youth can be a powerful trigger for memories and emotions, and for older people, it's a way to connect with their past. Plus, the melodies and harmonies are often more subdued, which can be easier on the ears as we age. My grandmother, for example, loves listening to Frank Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald – she says it reminds her of her youth and the good old days.

Why is square dance music so loud? I think square dance music is so loud because it's meant to be energetic and lively! Square dancing is all about movement and community, and the music needs to match that energy. The loud fiddles, banjos, and accordions create a infectious rhythm that gets people moving and clapping along. Plus, square dances are often held in large halls or barns, so the music needs to be loud enough to fill the space and get everyone in the mood. It's not just about the volume, though – the music is also meant to be joyful and celebratory, and the loudness is a big part of that.

Has your preference in music changed over the years? Definitely! As I've grown older, my taste in music has evolved. When I was younger, I was all about pop-punk and alternative rock – I loved the energy and rebellion of those genres. But as I've gotten older, I've started to appreciate more mellow, acoustic music. I think it's because I've had more life experiences and I'm looking for music that reflects my current mood and perspective. I've also discovered a love for singer-songwriters like Jack Johnson and Jason Mraz – their music is just so soothing and introspective. It's funny how our tastes can change over time, but it's all part of growing and discovering new things, right?

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

get up and dance

to start dancing, often spontaneously

The music was so good, everyone got up and danced.