Cue Card

Describe a rule that you don’t like

You should say:

• What the rule is
• Why you don’t like it
• How others feel about the rule
• And explain whether you follow the rule.

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. What kind of rules should students follow at school?
2. Is it important for schools to have rules? Why?
3. What sort of rules should children follow at home?
4. What kind of punishments do people get for parking in the wrong spot?

Sample Cue Card Answer

I'm going to say it: I hate the rule that says you have to be on time, all the time. I know, I know, punctuality is key, respect for others, yada yada. But let's be real, who hasn't been stuck in traffic, or had a train break down, or simply hit the snooze button one too many times? It's not like we're trying to be late, it's just that life happens. And yet, we're still expected to arrive at the office, or the party, or the meeting, with a bright smile and a'sorry I'm late' that's not even sincere.

I mean, think about it. We're living in a world where we can order food, and clothes, and even relationships with just a few taps on our phones. But when it comes to time, we're still stuck in the Stone Age. We're expected to be on time, no matter what. And if we're not, we're penalized. We're late, we're lazy, we're unreliable. It's like, come on, can't we just have a little bit of flexibility? Can't we just acknowledge that sometimes, things don't go according to plan?

And don't even get me started on the concept of 'fashionably late'. Like, what even is that? Is it a thing? Is it a rule? Because if it is, I'm definitely breaking it. I mean, who gets to decide what's fashionable, anyway? Is it the person who shows up 10 minutes late, or the person who shows up 15? It's all so arbitrary, and it's all so... human. We're not robots, people! We can't be expected to be on time, all the time.

So, let's ditch this rule, shall we? Let's make a new one. Let's say it's okay to be a little late, sometimes. Let's say it's okay to be human. Because in the end, that's what we are. We're not perfect, we're not punctual, and we're definitely not robots. We're just... us. And that's okay.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

on time

to arrive at a place at the expected or agreed time

I'll meet you at 7, and we'll go to the movies on time.

If you're not on time, you'll miss the bus.

fashionably late

to arrive at a place slightly later than expected, in a way that is considered stylish or attractive

She always arrives fashionably late to parties.

He's always fashionably late, it's just his style.

Sample Part 3 Answers

What kind of rules should students follow at school? One rule that I think is reasonable for students to follow at school is to respect their teachers and peers. This means listening attentively during lessons, not interrupting others, and using polite language. This rule is important because it creates a positive and productive learning environment where everyone feels valued and supported. When students respect each other and their teachers, they're more likely to stay focused and engaged in class, which ultimately leads to better academic performance and a more enjoyable school experience.

Is it important for schools to have rules? Why? I think it's essential for schools to have rules because they provide a sense of structure and safety for students. Rules help students understand what's expected of them and what behavior is acceptable. Without rules, schools would be chaotic and potentially hazardous, making it difficult for students to learn and thrive. Rules also teach students important life skills like responsibility, self-discipline, and accountability, which are crucial for their future success.

What sort of rules should children follow at home? One rule that's important for children to follow at home is to clean up after themselves. This means putting away toys and books after playtime, helping with household chores, and taking care of their personal belongings. This rule is vital because it teaches children the value of responsibility and independence. When kids take care of their belongings and help with household tasks, they develop a sense of ownership and pride in their work, which can translate to other areas of their life.

What kind of punishments do people get for parking in the wrong spot? When people park in the wrong spot, they might receive a warning or a fine, depending on the severity of the infraction. For instance, if someone parks in a handicapped spot without a permit, they might get a hefty fine. In some cases, their car might even get towed. These punishments serve as a deterrent to prevent people from parking in the wrong spot and ensure that everyone has access to the parking spaces they need.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

break the rules

to disobey or disregard rules

If you break the rules, you might get in trouble.

She broke the rules by talking back to the teacher.