Cue Card

Describe a roadtrip you would like to take

You should say:

• Who you would go with
• Where you would like to go
• How you would get there
• And explain why you would like to take this roadtrip.

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. What’s the most popular kind of vehicle in your country?
2. Do you think cars produce the most pollution?
3. Do you think people need to change their primary mode of transportation to reduce pollution?
4. What are the differences between how people get around in the countryside compared to how they get around in an urban area?

Sample Cue Card Answer

I've always been fascinated by the idea of a road trip that's not just about getting from point A to point B, but about the journey itself. You see, I've been stuck in the same routine for years, and I feel like I'm just going through the motions. I need a break from the monotony, a chance to clear my head and rediscover myself. That's why I'd love to take a road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway, from San Francisco to San Diego.

I'd want to take my time, stopping at all the quirky roadside attractions, hiking in Big Sur, and watching the sunset over the ocean. I'd want to meet fellow travelers, hear their stories, and share my own. I'd want to try all the local foods, from fish tacos to avocado toast. And I'd want to take in the stunning natural beauty of the California coast, from the redwoods to the beaches.

But this trip wouldn't just be about sightseeing; it would be about self-discovery. I'd want to use the long hours on the road to reflect on my life, my goals, and my values. I'd want to journal, meditate, and practice yoga to center myself. I'd want to challenge myself to try new things, like surfing or rock climbing, and to step out of my comfort zone.

Of course, there are the practical considerations – the planning, the budgeting, the logistics. But I'm willing to put in the work to make this trip a reality. I'd want to rent a camper van, pack my favorite books and music, and hit the open road. I'd want to document my journey on social media, not to show off, but to share my experience with others and inspire them to take their own road trips.

So, that's my dream road trip – a journey of self-discovery, adventure, and connection. It's not just about the destination; it's about the journey itself, the people I meet, and the experiences I have along the way. And who knows, maybe I'll even discover a new passion or talent on this trip. The possibilities are endless, and that's what makes this road trip so exciting.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

Going through the motions

To do something without much enthusiasm or interest, often because it is a habit or routine.

I feel like I'm just going through the motions at my job.

She's been going through the motions since her breakup.

Clear my head

To think clearly and make good decisions, often after a period of confusion or uncertainty.

I need to clear my head before making this important decision.

A walk in the park helped me clear my head.

Step out of my comfort zone

To do something that makes you feel uncomfortable or nervous, often to challenge yourself or learn something new.

I'm trying to step out of my comfort zone by taking a public speaking class.

Traveling alone forced me to step out of my comfort zone.

Sample Part 3 Answers

What’s the most popular kind of vehicle in your country? In the United States, the most popular kind of vehicle is undoubtedly the pickup truck. I mean, you can't drive down a highway without seeing a Ford F-150 or a Chevy Silverado. But what's behind this phenomenon? I think it's because pickup trucks have become a symbol of American identity - they're rugged, reliable, and versatile. They're not just for farmers and construction workers anymore; they're for anyone who wants to haul their gear, tow a trailer, or simply feel a sense of freedom on the open road. Plus, with the rise of suburban living, many Americans need a vehicle that can handle both daily commutes and weekend adventures. The pickup truck has become the ultimate jack-of-all-trades, and that's why it's the most popular vehicle in the country.

Do you think cars produce the most pollution? While cars are often villainized as the primary polluters, the reality is more nuanced. In the United States, for example, the transportation sector as a whole accounts for around 27% of greenhouse gas emissions, but within that sector, cars are just one part of the equation. Trucks, airplanes, and even ships play a significant role in emissions as well. That being said, cars do contribute significantly to air pollution, particularly in urban areas. The main culprit behind the pollution from cars is the emissions from the tailpipe, which is a result of the combustion of fossil fuels. I think what's often overlooked, however, is the pollution that comes from the production of cars themselves - the extraction of raw materials, the manufacturing process, and the eventual disposal of the vehicle at the end of its life. This is often referred to as the 'cradle-to-grave' approach, and it's an important consideration when evaluating the environmental impact of cars.

Do you think people need to change their primary mode of transportation to reduce pollution? I firmly believe that we need to rethink our transportation habits to mitigate the environmental damage caused by cars. One approach is to invest in alternative modes of transportation, such as public transit, cycling, and walking. By providing safe and efficient infrastructure for these options, we can incentivize people to leave their cars behind. For instance, cities like Copenhagen and Amsterdam have made significant strides in promoting cycling culture, with dedicated bike lanes and bike-sharing programs. This not only reduces emissions but also improves air quality and enhances the overall quality of life for residents. Of course, this requires a fundamental shift in how we design our cities and prioritize transportation, but the benefits are well worth it.

What are the differences between how people get around in the countryside compared to how they get around in an urban area? The contrast between rural and urban transportation is striking. In the countryside, people often rely on personal vehicles due to the lack of public transportation options. The distances between destinations are typically greater, and the roads can be winding and narrow, making it difficult to implement efficient public transit systems. In contrast, urban areas have the advantage of density, which allows for more efficient use of public transportation. Cities can support bus and train networks, bike-share programs, and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, making it easier for people to get around without cars. However, this also means that urban areas often struggle with congestion and parking challenges, which can be a major headache for commuters. Ultimately, the key is finding a balance between convenience, efficiency, and sustainability in both rural and urban areas.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

jack-of-all-trades

A person or thing that is skilled at many things, but not necessarily expert in any one area.

The pickup truck is a jack-of-all-trades, suitable for both work and play.

cradle-to-grave

The entire lifespan of a product or process, from its creation to its disposal.

The cradle-to-grave approach considers the environmental impact of a car from production to disposal.