Cue Card

Describe a historical period you would like to know more about

You should say:

• When it was
• How you heard about it
• What interests you about this period
• What you already know about it
• And why you would like to know more

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. How can you learn about history?
2. What can we do to protect old buildings?
3. What’s the difference between history taught in primary school and high school?
4. Why do some people have no interest in history?

Sample Cue Card Answer

The Roaring Twenties - the cat's pajamas, the bee's knees, the most fascinating era in American history. I'm obsessed with the 1920s, a time when the world was changing at a breakneck pace. It was the dawn of the modern age, and the United States was at the forefront of it all. Women were finally gaining the right to vote, jazz was born in the smoky clubs of New Orleans, and the Harlem Renaissance was in full swing. It was a time of unbridled creativity, when the likes of F. Scott Fitzgerald, Ernest Hemingway, and Langston Hughes were producing some of the most iconic works of American literature.

But what really draws me to this era is the tension between tradition and progress. On one hand, you had the old guard - the wealthy elite, clinging to their Victorian values and social norms. On the other hand, you had the young and the bold, pushing the boundaries of what was considered acceptable. Flappers were bobbing their hair, wearing shorter skirts, and dancing the Charleston, while the likes of Babe Ruth and Jack Dempsey were becoming sports heroes. It was a time of great social change, and I'm fascinated by the ways in which people navigated these shifting cultural norms.

I'd love to know more about the everyday lives of people during this period. What was it like to be a young woman, finally gaining the right to vote, but still facing immense societal pressure to conform? What was it like to be a black artist, trying to make a name for yourself in a world that was still deeply segregated? The 1920s were a time of great upheaval, and I'm captivated by the stories of those who lived through it all.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

the cat's pajamas

something or someone excellent or wonderful

This new restaurant is the cat's pajamas!

She's the cat's pajamas, I'm so jealous of her talent.

the bee's knees

something or someone excellent or wonderful

This new video game is the bee's knees!

He's the bee's knees, I love his sense of humor.

Sample Part 3 Answers

How can you learn about history? I think one of the best ways to learn about history is through immersive experiences. For instance, visiting historical sites and museums can be incredibly powerful. When you walk through a place like the Gettysburg Battlefield or the Smithsonian, you can almost feel the weight of the past. Seeing artifacts and hearing the stories behind them can make history feel more tangible and personal. You can also learn a lot from documentaries and historical dramas. These types of media can bring historical events to life in a way that textbooks can't. But I think the most important thing is to find what sparks your curiosity and pursue it. Whether it's reading historical fiction, listening to podcasts, or even playing historical video games, the key is to find a way to engage with history that feels enjoyable and interactive.

What can we do to protect old buildings? Preserving old buildings is a crucial part of preserving our cultural heritage. One way to do this is through restoration and renovation. When done carefully, these processes can bring old buildings back to their former glory while also making them safe and functional for modern use. For example, the historic district in Savannah, Georgia, is a beautiful example of how old buildings can be restored and repurposed. The city has done a great job of balancing preservation with modern needs, and the result is a charming and vibrant neighborhood that showcases the city's rich history. Another important step is to raise awareness about the importance of preserving old buildings. By educating people about the historical significance of these structures, we can build support for their preservation and ensure that they're protected for future generations.

What’s the difference between history taught in primary school and high school? I think one of the main differences between history taught in primary school and high school is the level of depth and complexity. In primary school, history is often taught in a more general way, with a focus on broad themes and events. For example, students might learn about the American Revolution or the Civil Rights Movement in a way that's engaging and easy to understand. In high school, however, history is often taught in a more nuanced and detailed way. Students might delve deeper into specific topics, analyzing primary sources and evaluating different historical interpretations. This allows them to develop a more sophisticated understanding of historical events and their ongoing impact on society.

Why do some people have no interest in history? I think one reason some people might not be interested in history is that they don't see its relevance to their own lives. If history is presented as a dry, abstract subject that's only about dates and events, it can be hard to connect with. But history is really about people and their stories – it's about understanding how the past has shaped the world we live in today. When history is taught in a way that highlights these human stories and connections, it can be incredibly compelling. For example, learning about the experiences of ordinary people during times of war or social change can be a powerful way to make history feel more relatable and meaningful. By emphasizing the human side of history, we can make it more accessible and engaging for people who might not have been interested otherwise.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

immersive experience

an experience that surrounds and engages you completely

The museum's new exhibit is an immersive experience that transports you back in time.

spark your curiosity

to arouse your interest or curiosity

The documentary sparked my curiosity about the topic, and now I want to learn more.

bring back to life

to restore or revitalize something

The restoration project brought the old theater back to life.

raise awareness

to inform or educate people about something

The campaign aims to raise awareness about the importance of preserving old buildings.