Cue Card

Describe a new skill you learned that you think is important

You should say:

• What it is
• How hard it was to learn
• How you learned it
• And explain why you think it is important.

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. What skills are important in business?
2. What’s the difference between the skills required in the past and the skills required nowadays?
3. What kinds of skills should successful people have?
4. Do you think teamwork and communication skills are important? Why?

Sample Cue Card Answer

I recently learned how to code, and it's been a total game-changer. I know what you're thinking - coding is for tech whizzes and computer science majors, but trust me, it's not just for them. Learning to code has opened up a whole new world of possibilities for me, and I think it's an essential skill for anyone living in today's digital age. With coding, I can now build my own websites, apps, and software, which has been incredibly empowering. It's like having a superpower - I can create something from scratch and bring my ideas to life.

What I love about coding is that it's not just about writing lines of code; it's about problem-solving and critical thinking. It's about breaking down complex problems into smaller, manageable parts and finding creative solutions. These skills are transferable to so many areas of life, from business to art to social impact. Plus, the coding community is amazing - there are so many resources available online, from tutorials to forums, and the people are super supportive and willing to help.

I think everyone should learn to code, regardless of their background or profession. It's a skill that can benefit anyone, whether you're an entrepreneur, artist, or activist. And the best part is, you don't need to be a tech expert to get started. There are so many beginner-friendly resources out there, from Codecademy to Scratch, that make it easy to dive in and start learning. So, if you haven't already, give coding a try - you never know what you might create!

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

game-changer

something that completely changes a situation or activity

The new policy was a game-changer for the company.

Learning to code was a game-changer for my career.

bring to life

to make something seem real or exciting

The special effects brought the movie to life.

Her passion brought the project to life.

break down

to divide something into smaller parts to understand or deal with it

Let's break down the problem into smaller tasks.

I broke down the project into manageable chunks.

Sample Part 3 Answers

What skills are important in business? I think one of the most important skills in business is adaptability. With technology constantly evolving and markets shifting, being able to pivot and adjust to new situations is crucial. For example, I recently took a course on data analysis, and I was surprised by how much of a game-changer it's been for my work. Being able to interpret and communicate complex data insights has not only helped me make more informed decisions but also allowed me to add more value to my team. It's skills like these that can make all the difference in staying ahead of the curve and driving business success.

What’s the difference between the skills required in the past and the skills required nowadays? I think one of the biggest differences is the emphasis on soft skills. In the past, technical skills were often the primary focus, but nowadays, employers are looking for people who can work collaboratively, think creatively, and communicate effectively. For instance, I've noticed that many companies are now prioritizing skills like emotional intelligence, empathy, and conflict resolution. These skills are essential for building strong relationships, managing teams, and driving innovation. It's no longer just about having the technical know-how; it's about being able to work with others to achieve a common goal.

What kinds of skills should successful people have? I believe that successful people should have a growth mindset. They should be curious, open to learning, and willing to take calculated risks. One skill that I think is particularly valuable is resilience. Being able to bounce back from setbacks, learn from failures, and maintain a positive attitude is essential for achieving long-term success. For example, I've seen people in my industry who have faced significant challenges, but instead of giving up, they've used those experiences as opportunities to learn and grow. That kind of resilience is what sets successful people apart and allows them to stay ahead of the curve.

Do you think teamwork and communication skills are important? Why? Absolutely, I think teamwork and communication skills are essential. In today's fast-paced, interconnected world, no one person has all the answers. Being able to work collaboratively, share ideas, and communicate effectively is critical for driving innovation and achieving common goals. I've seen firsthand how a team that can work together seamlessly can accomplish far more than any individual could alone. It's not just about being able to get along with others; it's about being able to build on each other's strengths, share knowledge, and create something greater than the sum of its parts.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

ahead of the curve

to be more advanced or knowledgeable than others in a particular field or activity

The company's innovative approach has kept them ahead of the curve in the tech industry.

game-changer

something that has a significant and often sudden impact or effect

The new marketing strategy was a game-changer for the company, increasing sales by 20%.

growth mindset

the idea that abilities and intelligence can be developed through hard work, dedication, and persistence

She has a growth mindset and is always looking for ways to improve her skills.