Cue Card

Describe a skill that took you a long time to learn

You should say:

• What it was
• When you learned it
• Why it took you so much time to learn
• And how you felt about it

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. What skills may take a long time to learn?
2. Why would people spend a lot of time learning a new skill?
3. Do people feel happy after they have learned a new skill?
4. Why are some people unwilling to learn new skills?
5. Do you think it takes a long time to learn a language?

Sample Cue Card Answer

I'll never forget the day I decided to learn how to code. I was a marketing specialist at the time, and I had zero experience with programming. But I was determined to learn. I spent every spare moment watching tutorials, reading books, and practicing. And let me tell you, it was a struggle. I mean, I was used to writing ad copy, not writing code. But I was determined to master this new skill. And it took time. Oh, it took so much time. There were nights when I'd sit at my desk, staring at lines of code, feeling like I was staring at a foreign language. But I didn't give up. I kept at it, day after day, week after week, month after month. And slowly but surely, it started to click. I began to understand the logic behind the code, and I started to write my own programs. It was an incredible feeling, like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders.

Looking back, I realize that learning to code was not just about acquiring a new skill, it was about developing a new mindset. It was about being patient, persistent, and open to learning. And it's a skill that has taken me the longest to learn is probably public speaking. I mean, I've always been comfortable writing, but speaking in front of a crowd was a whole different story. I'd get nervous, stumble over my words, and just generally feel like a total mess. But I knew that if I wanted to advance in my career, I needed to overcome my fear. So, I started small, speaking up in meetings, presenting to small groups, and gradually working my way up to larger audiences. And it wasn't easy, let me tell you. There were plenty of times when I felt like I was going to pass out from nervousness. But I kept at it, and slowly but surely, I started to feel more confident. I learned how to prepare, how to focus on my message, and how to connect with my audience. And now, I actually enjoy public speaking. I mean, it's not my favorite thing to do, but I'm no longer terrified of it.

The thing is, learning a new skill takes time, effort, and perseverance. It's not something that happens overnight. But the payoff is worth it. Not only do you acquire a new skill, but you also develop a new sense of confidence and self-assurance. And that's something that can benefit you in all areas of your life. So, if you're thinking of learning a new skill, don't be discouraged if it takes time. Just keep at it, and remember that the journey is just as important as the destination.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

taken me the longest to learn

something that has required the most time and effort to acquire or master

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weight off my shoulders

a feeling of relief or freedom from a burden or responsibility

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Sample Part 3 Answers

What skills may take a long time to learn? You know, I think skills that take a long time to learn are often the ones that require a combination of physical and mental practice, like playing a musical instrument or mastering a sport. For example, becoming a proficient pianist doesn't just require learning the notes and chords, but also developing the hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills to play them smoothly. It's the same with sports like golf or tennis - you need to practice your swing or serve over and over again to get it just right. These kinds of skills take time to develop because they require a deep level of muscle memory and instinctual movement.

Why would people spend a lot of time learning a new skill? People spend a lot of time learning a new skill because they're driven by a passion or a desire to achieve a specific goal. For instance, someone who's always dreamed of becoming a professional musician will put in the long hours of practice because they're motivated by the thought of performing on stage or recording an album. Or, an entrepreneur might spend years learning the ins and outs of their industry because they're driven by the desire to create a successful business. When you're passionate about something, the time and effort it takes to learn a new skill doesn't feel like a chore - it feels like an investment in yourself and your future.

Do people feel happy after they have learned a new skill? Absolutely, people often feel an overwhelming sense of pride and accomplishment when they've finally mastered a new skill. It's like a weight has been lifted off their shoulders, and they can't wait to show off their new abilities to others. I think this is because learning a new skill is a journey, and the sense of progress and growth you experience along the way is incredibly rewarding. When you finally reach your goal, it's like you're standing on top of a mountain, looking out at the breathtaking view - you feel proud of yourself and all the hard work you put in. Plus, having a new skill under your belt can open up new opportunities and experiences, which can bring even more joy and fulfillment.

Why are some people unwilling to learn new skills? I think some people are unwilling to learn new skills because they're afraid of failure or feeling foolish. They might be worried that they won't be good at something, or that they'll look silly trying. This fear can be especially strong if they've had negative experiences in the past, like being criticized or belittled for trying something new. Additionally, some people might feel like they're too old or too set in their ways to learn something new, or that they don't have the time or energy to devote to learning. But the thing is, learning a new skill is a process, and it's okay to start small and make mistakes along the way - it's all part of the journey.

Do you think it takes a long time to learn a language? Definitely, learning a language can take a significant amount of time and effort. Not only do you need to learn the grammar and vocabulary, but you also need to develop an ear for the sounds and rhythms of the language, which can be really challenging. I think one of the hardest things about learning a language is getting to the point where you can think in it, rather than just translating from your native language. This requires a lot of practice and immersion, whether that's through speaking with native speakers, watching TV shows or movies, or listening to music. But the payoff is worth it - being able to communicate with people from different cultures and backgrounds is an incredible gift.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

to be driven by something

to be motivated or inspired by something

She's driven by a desire to help others.

He's driven by a passion for music.

to have a weight lifted off your shoulders

to feel a sense of relief or freedom from a burden or responsibility

I felt like I had a weight lifted off my shoulders when I finally paid off my debt.

She had a weight lifted off her shoulders when she quit her stressful job.