Cue Card

Describe a home you visit often that belongs to someone you know well

You should say:

• who the home belongs to
• how often you go there
• what it is like; and
• explain how you feel about their home.

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. What are the differences between homes in the countryside and homes in a city?
2. Would you prefer to live in a city or the countryside?
3. What kinds of risks do people face if they live in a city?
4. Is it expensive to furnish and decorate a home where you live?
5. What do people consider when choosing a place to live in?
6. Why do people have plants around their home?

Sample Cue Card Answer

My grandmother's house is a place I visit often. It's a cozy little bungalow with a big backyard where we can play games and have barbecues. Inside, the house is warm and welcoming, with comfy couches and a big kitchen where my grandmother loves to cook. She always has a big smile on her face when I visit, and it feels like home. I love visiting my grandmother's house because it's always filled with love and laughter. We have so many happy memories there, and I always feel safe and comfortable. It's a place where I can be myself and just relax.

One of my favorite things about my grandmother's house is the big tree in the front yard. It's a beautiful old oak with a swing hanging from one of the branches. I used to love swinging on that swing when I was younger, and now I love sitting on the porch and watching the sunset. My grandmother's house is more than just a place to visit - it's a place where I feel like I belong.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

a place to call home

a place where someone feels comfortable and at ease

My grandmother's house is a place to call home.

I feel like I can be myself at my grandmother's house, it's a place to call home.

filled with love and laughter

a place where people are happy and enjoy each other's company

My grandmother's house is always filled with love and laughter.

I love visiting my grandmother's house because it's always filled with love and laughter.

Sample Part 3 Answers

What are the differences between homes in the countryside and homes in a city? One of the main differences between homes in the countryside and homes in a city is the amount of space available. In the countryside, homes tend to be more spread out and often have larger yards, which can be a big plus for people who love the outdoors and want to have room for a garden or a pet. On the other hand, city homes are often more compact and may not have a yard at all, but they're usually closer to public transportation and amenities like shops and restaurants. For me, the trade-off is worth it - I love being able to walk to my favorite coffee shop or park in the city, but I also appreciate the peace and quiet of a rural home.

Would you prefer to live in a city or the countryside? Personally, I think I would prefer to live in a city. I love the energy and diversity of urban areas - there's always something to do, see, or explore. Plus, cities tend to have a lot of job opportunities and cultural events, which is important to me. That being said, I do appreciate the beauty and tranquility of the countryside, and I think it would be a great place to visit or have a vacation home. But for my everyday life, I think the city is where I'd thrive.

What kinds of risks do people face if they live in a city? One of the biggest risks people face when living in a city is crime. With more people and more opportunities for theft or violence, cities can be a higher-risk environment than rural areas. Additionally, cities often have more air and noise pollution, which can be bad for your health. And then there's the risk of accidents or injuries from traffic or construction, which can be a concern in densely populated areas. However, many cities are taking steps to mitigate these risks, such as increasing police presence or implementing safety measures like bike lanes.

Is it expensive to furnish and decorate a home where you live? In my experience, furnishing and decorating a home can be expensive, but it doesn't have to be. I think it really depends on your personal style and what you're looking for. If you're going for high-end designer pieces, it can definitely add up quickly. But if you're willing to thrift or DIY, you can find some amazing deals. Plus, many cities have affordable furniture stores or second-hand shops that can help you furnish your home without breaking the bank. For me, it's all about finding a balance between style and budget.

What do people consider when choosing a place to live in? When choosing a place to live, I think people consider a lot of different factors. For some, it's all about location - being close to work, school, or family is a top priority. Others might prioritize affordability, looking for a place that fits their budget. And then there are people who care more about the quality of life - they might look for a place with good schools, safe neighborhoods, and plenty of amenities like parks or community centers. For me, it's a combination of all these things - I want a place that's convenient, affordable, and has a great community vibe.

Why do people have plants around their home? I think people have plants around their home for a lot of reasons. For one, they're just so good for the air quality - they purify the air and make your home feel fresher. But I think it's more than that. Plants can really add to the aesthetic of a room, making it feel more welcoming and cozy. Plus, taking care of plants can be really therapeutic - it's a way to relax and unwind after a long day. For me, having plants around the home is all about creating a sense of calm and tranquility.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

spread out

to be located or arranged over a large area

In the countryside, homes tend to be more spread out and often have larger yards.

trade-off

a situation in which you accept something you do not want in order to have something you want more

For me, the trade-off is worth it - I love being able to walk to my favorite coffee shop or park in the city, but I also appreciate the peace and quiet of a rural home.

thrive

to grow or develop well or strongly

But for my everyday life, I think the city is where I'd thrive.

mitigate

to make something less severe or unpleasant

However, many cities are taking steps to mitigate these risks, such as increasing police presence or implementing safety measures like bike lanes.

break the bank

to spend more money than you can afford

But if you're willing to thrift, you can find some amazing deals and not break the bank.

balance

a state of stability or equilibrium

For me, it's all about finding a balance between style and budget.

community vibe

a feeling or atmosphere of a community

I want a place that's convenient, affordable, and has a great community vibe.

relax and unwind

to calm down and rest after a period of stress or activity

Taking care of plants can really be therapeutic - it's a way to relax and unwind after a long day.