Cue Card

Describe a party you attended

You should say:

• When it took place
• Where it was
• Whose party it was
• What you did there
• And how you felt about the party

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. What do children often do at a birthday party?
2. What do adults do at parties?
3. Do people in your country like to hold parties?
4. Should parents spend a lot of money on a children’s birthday party?
5. Do you think people can make friends if they attend parties?

Sample Cue Card Answer

I walked into the party and was immediately hit with the unmistakable smell of cheap beer and desperation. It was one of those gatherings where everyone was trying too hard to have a good time, but it was clear that nobody was actually having fun. I mean, who throws a party on a Tuesday, right? The music was blasting, but it was the kind of playlist that's just a bunch of songs that are supposed to be party anthems, but really just make you want to leave.

I made my way through the crowded room, dodging people who were trying to take selfies with the 'Instagram-worthy' backdrop that the host had set up. It was like they thought that if they just threw enough glitter and fairy lights at the wall, it would magically become a good time. Newsflash: it didn't. I grabbed a drink and tried to make small talk with a few people, but it was all just surface-level stuff. Nobody was really connecting with each other, we were all just going through the motions.

But then, something weird happened. The music changed, and suddenly everyone was dancing. I mean, really dancing – not just swaying to the beat, but actually letting loose and having fun. It was like the whole room had been holding its breath, waiting for permission to relax and enjoy themselves. And in that moment, the party actually felt like a party. It was like we'd all been given a collective permission slip to let go of our inhibitions and just be.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

going through the motions

to do something without enthusiasm or interest, just to get it done

The team was going through the motions in the second half of the game, they were clearly demotivated.

let loose

to relax and have fun, often by doing something wild or uninhibited

After a few drinks, she let loose and started dancing on the table.

Sample Part 3 Answers

What do children often do at a birthday party? At a birthday party, kids usually get super excited and can't wait to dive into the fun activities. One of the most popular things they love to do is play games, like Pin the Tail on the Donkey or Musical Chairs. These games are always a hit because they're so interactive and get everyone laughing and moving around. I remember at my niece's birthday party last year, they played this game where they had to pass around a balloon and when the music stopped, the kid holding the balloon got a prize. It was hilarious watching them all scramble to hold onto that balloon!

What do adults do at parties? When adults attend parties, they often use the opportunity to socialize and catch up with friends and acquaintances. They might mingle around, grabbing a drink or some appetizers, and engage in conversations about their lives, work, or common interests. I've noticed that at parties, people tend to form little clusters, chatting with those they know well, but also making an effort to meet new people. It's a great way to expand your social circle and make new connections. At a party I attended recently, I met a few colleagues from a different department, and we ended up discussing a potential collaboration on a project – it was a great outcome from a casual conversation!

Do people in your country like to hold parties? In the United States, people love to throw and attend parties for all sorts of occasions – birthdays, holidays, graduations, you name it! There's something about gathering with friends and family, sharing food and drinks, and creating memories that just brings people together. I think it's because parties offer a chance to step away from our busy lives and simply enjoy each other's company. Plus, with the rise of social media, people are always looking for experiences to share and capture, and parties provide the perfect setting for that. Whether it's a backyard BBQ or a fancy gala, parties are an integral part of American culture.

Should parents spend a lot of money on a children’s birthday party? While it's tempting to splurge on a lavish birthday party for your child, I think it's essential to strike a balance between creating a special day and breaking the bank. Kids often remember the experience and the time spent with loved ones more than the price tag. In fact, some of the most memorable parties I've attended were the ones that were simple yet thoughtful, like a DIY craft party or a picnic in the park. Of course, every family's financial situation is different, but I believe it's crucial to prioritize what truly matters – the child's happiness and the quality time spent together – over extravagant decorations or expensive entertainment.

Do you think people can make friends if they attend parties? Attending parties can be an excellent way to meet new people and potentially make friends. When you're in a relaxed, social setting, it's easier to strike up conversations and find common ground with others. I've made some great friends at parties, and it's often because we bonded over shared interests or experiences. The key is to be open-minded, approachable, and genuinely interested in getting to know others. At a party, you might discover a shared love for a particular hobby or TV show, and before you know it, you're exchanging numbers and making plans to hang out outside of the party. It's amazing how a chance encounter can lead to a lasting connection!

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

Break the bank

To spend a lot of money

She broke the bank on her wedding dress.

He broke the bank on his new car.

Step away

To take a break or move away from something

She stepped away from her desk to take a break.

He stepped away from the project to focus on his family.

Strike up a conversation

To start talking to someone

She struck up a conversation with the stranger on the plane.

He struck up a conversation with his neighbor at the party.