Cue Card

Describe a skill that you think you can teach others

You should say:

• What it is
• When you learned it
• How you would teach other people
• And explain how you would feel about teaching this skill.

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. Should teachers be funny when they teach?
2. What qualities should a good teacher have?
3. Do you think it’s more important to have good academic skills or good practical skills?
4. Which age group is better at learning new things?

Sample Cue Card Answer

I want to talk about a skill that I think is essential in today's fast-paced world: the art of doing nothing. Yep, you heard that right - doing nothing. In a world where we're constantly connected, constantly stimulated, and constantly on the go, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle and forget how to simply be. But I believe that learning to do nothing can be a game-changer.

When I say 'doing nothing,' I don't mean vegging out on the couch, scrolling mindlessly through your phone, or binge-watching an entire season of your favorite show (although, let's be real, those things can be fun too). I mean truly, intentionally, and mindfully doing nothing. No agenda, no distractions, no expectations. Just being present in the moment, without judgment or attachment.

For me, this skill was born out of necessity. As a freelancer, I used to work non-stop, often for 12 hours a day, 7 days a week. I was burned out, exhausted, and feeling like I was losing myself in the process. But one day, I realized that I had a choice. I could keep going down the same path, or I could take a step back, breathe, and learn to do nothing. And that's exactly what I did.

It wasn't easy, of course. My mind was trained to always be 'on,' to always be producing, to always be achieving. But I started small. I began by taking short breaks throughout the day - 5 minutes here, 10 minutes there - to simply sit, breathe, and be. And slowly but surely, I started to notice a shift. I felt more calm, more centered, and more grounded. I was able to focus more easily, think more clearly, and create more freely.

So, how can you learn to do nothing? Start small. Take a few minutes each day to sit quietly, without distraction. Focus on your breath, your body, or your surroundings. Don't try to achieve anything or accomplish anything. Just be. And when your mind starts to wander (and it will), gently bring it back to the present moment. With practice, you'll find that you're able to do nothing with more ease and that you're able to approach life with more clarity, creativity, and calm.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

Burned out

Exhausted, drained, or depleted, often due to prolonged stress, overwork, or intense activity.

After working non-stop for months, she felt burned out and needed a break.

He was burned out from studying for exams and just wanted to relax.

Take a step back

To pause, reflect, or reassess a situation, often to gain perspective or make a change.

After a fight with her friend, she took a step back to calm down and think things through.

He took a step back from his business to focus on his personal life.

Mindfully

With intentional focus and awareness, often in the present moment.

She ate her dinner mindfully, savoring each bite.

He walked mindfully through the forest, taking in the sights and sounds.

Sample Part 3 Answers

Should teachers be funny when they teach? I think teachers should definitely have a sense of humor when they teach. Not only does it make the learning experience more enjoyable, but it also helps students relax and feel more comfortable in the classroom. When a teacher is funny, it creates a positive atmosphere that makes students more receptive to the material being taught. Plus, humor can be a great way to break the ice and establish a connection with students, which is especially important for building trust and rapport. I've had teachers in the past who were hilarious, and it made me look forward to their classes. It's not about being a stand-up comedian, but about being able to laugh at yourself and find the humor in a situation. It makes the learning experience more human and less intimidating.

What qualities should a good teacher have? One quality that I think is essential for a good teacher is empathy. A good teacher should be able to understand and relate to their students' struggles and challenges. When a teacher can put themselves in their students' shoes, they're better able to tailor their teaching approach to meet the students' needs. It's not just about conveying information, but about creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment. I've had teachers who were super understanding and patient, and it made all the difference in my learning experience. They were able to break down complex concepts in a way that made sense to me, and they were always willing to lend a helping hand. Empathy is key to building strong relationships with students and helping them reach their full potential.

Do you think it’s more important to have good academic skills or good practical skills? I think it's a bit of both, but if I had to choose, I'd say practical skills are more important. Academic skills are essential for understanding theory and concepts, but practical skills are what help you apply that knowledge in real-life situations. In today's fast-paced world, employers are looking for people who can think on their feet and solve problems creatively. Practical skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability are essential for success in most industries. Plus, with the rise of online learning, it's easier than ever to access academic knowledge. But practical skills take time and experience to develop, and that's what sets people apart in the job market.

Which age group is better at learning new things? I think people of all ages are capable of learning new things, but if I had to choose, I'd say children are better at learning new things. Children's brains are like sponges, soaking up information and experiences at an incredible rate. They're also more open-minded and willing to take risks, which makes them more receptive to new ideas and skills. Plus, children are naturally curious, and that curiosity drives them to ask questions and seek out new knowledge. As we get older, we tend to get more set in our ways and less open to change, which can make it harder to learn new things. But that doesn't mean it's impossible – it just takes a bit more effort and dedication.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

break the ice

to do or say something to relax and make people feel more comfortable in a social situation

When a teacher is funny, it creates a positive atmosphere that makes students more receptive to the material being taught and helps break the ice.

put themselves in their students' shoes

to imagine how someone else is feeling or thinking

A good teacher should be able to put themselves in their students' shoes and tailor their teaching approach to meet the students' needs.

think on their feet

to think quickly and make decisions without much time to think

In today's fast-paced world, employers are looking for people who can think on their feet and solve problems creatively.

soaking up information

to learn or absorb a lot of information quickly and easily

Children's brains are like sponges, soaking up information and experiences at an incredible rate.