Cue Card

Describe a quiet place that you like to visit

You should say:

• where it is
• how you discovered it
• why you like to go there; and
• explain how you feel about this place.

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. Is it easy to find quiet places in your country?
2. Do old people like to live in quiet places?
3. Are homes more noisy nowadays than they were in the past?
4. Why do some people like to use white noise when they are working or studying?

Sample Cue Card Answer

I've got a spot that's my go-to for some peace and quiet. It's this tiny, independent bookstore in the city that's nestled between a vintage clothing store and a Korean BBQ joint. The first time I stumbled upon it, I was immediately drawn in by the smell of old books and the soft hum of jazz music playing in the background. The store is small, with narrow aisles and towering shelves that seem to stretch up to the ceiling, packed with everything from classics to contemporary bestsellers.

What I love most about this place is the sense of calm that washes over me the moment I step inside. The owner, an elderly woman named Mrs. Thompson, always greets me with a warm smile and asks how my day's going. She's got this gentle way of making you feel like you're the only person in the world, and it's infectious. The store's got a few comfy armchairs scattered around, and I love curling up with a good book and getting lost in the words.

But what really sets this place apart is the sense of community that's built up around it. Mrs. Thompson hosts these intimate book clubs and author readings that are always packed with people from all walks of life. It's amazing to see strangers become fast friends over a shared love of literature. And even when the store's empty, I love listening to the sound of pages turning, the creak of the old wooden floorboards, and the occasional chime of the wind outside. It's my happy place – a refuge from the chaos of everyday life.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

nestled between

to be situated or placed in a position between two things

The bookstore is nestled between a vintage clothing store and a Korean BBQ joint.

The park is nestled between two large buildings.

wash over

to suddenly feel a strong emotion or sensation

A sense of calm washed over me as I walked into the bookstore.

A wave of fear washed over her as she realized she was lost.

Sample Part 3 Answers

Is it easy to find quiet places in your country? Honestly, I think it's getting harder to find quiet places in the United States. With the rise of urbanization and development, it seems like there's always some kind of noise pollution, whether it's from traffic, construction, or just the general hum of the city. But, if you're willing to look, you can still find some hidden gems. For example, I have a friend who lives in a rural area, and she has this amazing spot near her house where she can go to escape the noise. It's a secluded lake surrounded by woods, and it's so peaceful. She told me that sometimes she'll go there just to sit in silence and recharge. I think that's really beautiful, and it makes me realize that even in a busy country like the US, there are still quiet places to be found if you're willing to seek them out.

Do old people like to live in quiet places? I think many older adults appreciate quiet places, not just because of the peace and quiet, but also because it can be easier on their senses. As people age, their hearing and sensitivity to noise can change, and loud environments can be overwhelming. My grandmother, for example, lives in a quiet retirement community, and she loves it. She says it's so much easier for her to relax and enjoy her hobbies without the constant noise of the city. Plus, the quiet environment helps her focus on her gardening and reading, which are her favorite activities. I think that's one reason why many older adults prefer quieter living situations – it allows them to focus on the things that bring them joy and fulfillment.

Are homes more noisy nowadays than they were in the past? I think homes are definitely more noisy nowadays than they were in the past. With the rise of technology and all the gadgets and gizmos we have, there's just so much more noise in our daily lives. Think about it – we've got TVs, computers, smartphones, and all sorts of other devices beeping and buzzing all the time. And it's not just the devices themselves, it's also the constant notifications and alerts that come with them. My friend's house, for example, is always filled with the sound of notifications from her family members' phones, and it can be really distracting. In contrast, I've heard stories from my grandparents about how quiet their homes were when they were growing up – no TV, no smartphones, just the sound of the radio or the occasional knock on the door. It's amazing how much quieter life was back then!

Why do some people like to use white noise when they are working or studying? I think some people like to use white noise when they're working or studying because it helps them focus. For me, personally, white noise is really helpful when I'm trying to concentrate. I use an app that generates a constant, soothing sound, like rain or ocean waves, and it really helps me block out distractions and stay focused. I think it's because our brains are wired to respond to patterns, and white noise provides a consistent pattern that our brains can latch onto, allowing us to tune out other distracting sounds. Plus, it's just so calming! My friend, who's a student, swears by white noise when she's studying for exams – she says it helps her relax and retain information better. It's amazing how something as simple as a constant sound can make such a big difference in our productivity and focus.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

get harder

become more difficult

Honestly, I think it's getting harder to find quiet places in the United States.

secluded

hidden or isolated from others

It's a secluded lake surrounded by woods, and it's so peaceful.

seek them out

to look for something or someone

I think that's really beautiful, and it makes me realize that even in a busy country like the US, there are still quiet places to be found if you're willing to seek them out.

overwhelming

too much to handle or deal with

As people age, their hearing and sensitivity to noise can change, and loud noises can be overwhelming.

focus on the things that bring them joy and fulfillment

to concentrate on things that make you happy and satisfied

I think that's one reason why many older adults prefer quieter living situations – it allows them to focus on the things that bring them joy and fulfillment.

gadgets and gizmos

small mechanical devices or machines

With the rise of technology and all the gadgets and gizmos we have, there's just so much more noise in our daily lives.

beeping and buzzing

making a high-pitched sound, like a machine or device

Think about it – we've got TVs, computers, smartphones, and all sorts of other devices beeping and buzzing all the time.

block out

to stop something from entering or affecting you

I use an app that generates a constant, soothing sound, like rain or ocean waves, and it really helps me block out other distracting sounds.

latch onto

to take hold of something or someone

I think it's because our brains are wired to respond to patterns, and white noise provides a consistent pattern that our brains can latch onto, allowing us to tune out other distracting sounds.