Cue Card

Describe a special cake you received as a gift

You should say:

• When you received this cake
• Where it was
• Who gave it to you
• And explain why the cake was special.

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. What are the differences between the traditional foods in your country compared to other countries?
2. Are there are any foods that are eaten on special occasions in your country?
3. Why are some people willing to spend a lot of money on food for special occasions?
4. Do you think it’s important for families to eat together?

Sample Cue Card Answer

So, I want to tell you about this amazing cake my best friend got me for my birthday last year. It was literally the most epic cake I'd ever seen. It was a vanilla sponge cake with strawberry buttercream frosting, and it had these intricate designs made out of sugar that looked like tiny flowers and leaves. I mean, it was like a work of art. My friend had ordered it from this super popular bakery in town, and they totally outdid themselves. The cake was so moist and flavorful, and the frosting was just the right amount of sweet. I was totally blown away.

What made it even more special was the thought and effort my friend put into getting it for me. She knew how much I love baking and trying out new recipes, so she got me this cake that was basically a masterpiece. We had a big party at my place, and everyone was raving about the cake. It was definitely the star of the show. I was so touched by my friend's gesture, and it's a memory that I'll always treasure.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

the icing on the cake

an additional pleasure or benefit that makes an already good situation even better

The cake was amazing, and the fact that my friend got it for me was the icing on the cake.

Sample Part 3 Answers

What are the differences between the traditional foods in your country compared to other countries? One of the things that struck me about traditional foods in the United States compared to other countries is the diversity of influences. Growing up, my family would often celebrate holidays with a big, elaborate cake, but when I visited my friend's house in Japan, I was surprised to see that they had a completely different set of desserts, like mochi and manju, that were just as delicious but totally new to me. It really made me realize how different cultures have their own unique sweet treats that are just as special and meaningful.

Are there are any foods that are eaten on special occasions in your country? Absolutely, in the US, cake is a big deal on special occasions like birthdays and weddings. I remember one birthday in particular when my grandma made me a cake that was shaped like my favorite animal, a cat. It was so cool and tasted amazing, and it's a memory that's stuck with me to this day. I think that's what's so great about special occasion foods - they're not just something you eat, but a way to make the day feel even more special and memorable.

Why are some people willing to spend a lot of money on food for special occasions? I think people are willing to splurge on food for special occasions because it's a way to show love and appreciation for the people they care about. When my sister got married, my parents spent a small fortune on the wedding cake, but it was worth it - it was this stunning, multi-tiered masterpiece that tasted incredible. It was a way for them to celebrate their daughter's special day and make it feel truly unforgettable.

Do you think it’s important for families to eat together? Definitely, I think eating together as a family is super important. When I was growing up, my family would always have dinner together on Sundays, and it was a time for us to catch up and talk about our week. Even though we'd often have disagreements or arguments, sharing a meal together always seemed to bring us closer together. And when it came to special occasions like birthdays or holidays, the food was always a big part of that - it was a way for us to bond and create memories that would last a lifetime.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

make the day feel even more special and memorable

to make an occasion or event more enjoyable and unforgettable

The fireworks display really made the day feel even more special and memorable.

The surprise party made her birthday feel even more special and memorable.