Cue Card

Describe a person who solved a problem in a smart way

You should say:

• Who this person is
• What the problem was
• How they solved it
• And explain why you think they did it in a smart way.

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. Do you think children are born smart or they learn to become smart?
2. How do children become smart at school?
3. Why do some people seem well-rounded and others only good at one thing?
4. Why does modern society need talents of all kinds?

Sample Cue Card Answer

I'd like to tell you about a remarkable individual who solved a problem in a truly innovative way. Her name is Boyan Slat, a Dutch inventor and entrepreneur who tackled the massive issue of plastic pollution in our oceans. At just 19 years old, Boyan was frustrated with the inefficiency of traditional methods for cleaning up the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, a giant vortex of plastic debris in the Pacific Ocean.

Boyan's solution was to design a system that harnessed the ocean's own currents to collect plastic waste. He created a floating barrier that would capture plastic debris as it floated by, rather than trying to chase it down with boats and nets. This approach not only reduced costs but also minimized harm to marine life.

What's even more impressive is that Boyan's system is designed to be scalable and adaptable to different ocean environments. He founded The Ocean Cleanup Project, a non-profit organization that aims to rid the world's oceans of plastic waste by 2050. Boyan's innovative thinking and determination have inspired a global movement to address this critical issue.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

think outside the box

to come up with a creative solution to a problem by thinking in an unconventional way

Boyan's design was a perfect example of thinking outside the box, as he used the ocean's currents to his advantage.

Sample Part 3 Answers

Do you think children are born smart or they learn to become smart? I think children are born with a natural curiosity and ability to learn, but becoming smart is a process that happens over time with experience, education, and practice. You see, when kids are young, they're like sponges, soaking up information and learning from their environment. As they grow, they start to develop their critical thinking skills and problem-solving abilities, which are essential for becoming smart. It's not just about being book-smart, but also about being able to apply what they've learned to real-life situations. So, while there may be some innate abilities, I believe that becoming smart is largely a result of learning and developing over time.

How do children become smart at school? I think children become smart at school by being curious and engaged in the learning process. When kids are interested in what they're learning, they're more likely to pay attention, ask questions, and absorb the information. Teachers play a huge role in making learning fun and interactive, which helps kids stay motivated and excited about learning. Additionally, schools that encourage hands-on activities, projects, and collaboration with peers help kids develop important skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication. By making learning a positive and enjoyable experience, schools can help kids develop a love for learning that will serve them well throughout their lives.

Why do some people seem well-rounded and others only good at one thing? I think people become well-rounded when they're encouraged to explore different interests and passions from a young age. When kids are given the opportunity to try new things, they're more likely to discover what they're good at and what they enjoy. This helps them develop a range of skills and interests that can serve them well in different areas of life. On the other hand, some people might focus on one area because they're naturally talented or passionate about it, and that's okay too! Being exceptional at one thing can be just as valuable as being well-rounded. Ultimately, it's about finding what works for each individual and nurturing their unique strengths and interests.

Why does modern society need talents of all kinds? I think modern society needs talents of all kinds because the world is becoming increasingly complex and interconnected. With so many different challenges and opportunities arising, we need people with a wide range of skills and perspectives to tackle them. Whether it's scientists working on climate change, artists creating innovative designs, or entrepreneurs developing new technologies, every talent has the potential to make a positive impact. By embracing and celebrating diversity in talents and skills, we can create a more vibrant, dynamic, and resilient society that's better equipped to address the challenges of the 21st century.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

soak up

to learn or absorb something quickly and easily

When kids are young, they're like sponges, soaking up information and learning from their environment.

hands-on

practical and involving direct participation or experience

Schools that encourage hands-on activities, projects, and collaboration with peers help kids develop important skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication.

well-rounded

having a good balance of different skills, qualities, or interests

I think people become well-rounded when they're encouraged to explore different interests and passions from a young age.

nurture

to care for and help something or someone grow or develop

Ultimately, it's about finding what works for each individual and nurturing their unique strengths and interests.

make a positive impact

to have a beneficial effect on something or someone

Whether it's scientists working on climate change, artists creating innovative designs, or entrepreneurs developing new technologies, every talent has the potential to make a positive impact.