Cue Card

Describe a story or novel you have read that you found interesting

You should say:

• when you read it
• what the story was about
• who wrote it; and
• explain why you thought it was interesting.

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. How does technology help people tell stories?
2. Do you prefer to read e-books or printed books?
3. Why are mystery novels popular nowadays?
4. What kinds of novels are suitable for film adaptation?

Sample Cue Card Answer

I'm obsessed with 'The Night Circus' by Erin Morgenstern. It's a novel that's hard to put down, and I mean that literally – I read it in one sitting, barely looking up from the page. The story is set in a mysterious circus that appears at night, filled with enchanting attractions and mesmerizing performances. But what really drew me in was the competition between the two main characters, Celia and Marco, who are trained by their mentors to outdo each other in a game of magic and imagination.

What I love about this novel is how it blurs the lines between reality and fantasy. The circus is a world within a world, where the boundaries between dreams and reality are constantly shifting. It's like stepping into a different dimension, where anything is possible. And the writing is just beautiful – Morgenstern's descriptions of the circus and its inhabitants are so vivid, you can almost smell the popcorn and feel the magic in the air.

But what really resonated with me was the theme of creativity and competition. Celia and Marco are both incredibly talented, but they're also incredibly flawed. They're struggling to find their place in the world, and their competition becomes a way of proving themselves to each other and to themselves. It's a powerful exploration of the human need to create and be seen, and how that need can both drive us and destroy us.

I think what I love most about 'The Night Circus' is how it's a novel that's both a escape and a reflection of our own world. It's a reminder that even in the most mundane moments, there's always the possibility for magic and wonder. And it's a testament to the power of imagination and creativity to transform our lives and the world around us.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

step into a different dimension

to enter a new or unfamiliar world or situation

The novel transported me to a different dimension, where anything was possible.

The music festival was like stepping into a different dimension, with its own rules and rhythms.

Sample Part 3 Answers

How does technology help people tell stories? I think technology has revolutionized the way people tell stories, making it more accessible and interactive. For instance, with the rise of social media, people can now share their personal stories and experiences with a global audience, receiving instant feedback and engagement. This has enabled people to connect with others who share similar interests and passions, creating a sense of community and fostering empathy. Moreover, technology has also enabled new forms of storytelling, such as virtual reality and podcasting, which offer immersive and engaging ways to experience stories. For example, podcasting has made it possible for people to create and share audio stories, which can be easily consumed during daily commutes or workouts, making storytelling a more integral part of our daily lives.

Do you prefer to read e-books or printed books? Personally, I prefer reading printed books, and I think it's because of the tactile experience they offer. There's something special about holding a physical book in your hands, feeling the weight of the pages, and flipping through them to get a sense of the story's progression. I also love the smell of printed books and the way the pages yellow with age, giving them a sense of character and history. While e-books are convenient and portable, I find that I get more immersed in a story when I'm reading a physical book, and I feel like I retain more of the details and plot twists. Plus, there's something satisfying about being able to display my favorite books on a bookshelf, which is a great conversation starter and a way to share my love of reading with others.

Why are mystery novels popular nowadays? I think mystery novels are popular nowadays because they tap into our innate curiosity and desire to solve puzzles. People love trying to piece together clues and figure out the twists and turns of a good mystery, and the sense of satisfaction they get from solving the puzzle is incredibly rewarding. Additionally, mystery novels often explore the human psyche and the complexities of human nature, which resonates with readers who are looking for a more nuanced and thought-provoking reading experience. For example, authors like Gillian Flynn and Tana French have become incredibly popular in recent years, and I think it's because their novels expertly weave together complex characters, plot twists, and social commentary, making for a reading experience that's both entertaining and intellectually stimulating.

What kinds of novels are suitable for film adaptation? I think novels with strong visual elements and a clear narrative arc are often the most suitable for film adaptation. Novels that have a clear structure, with a defined beginning, middle, and end, tend to translate well to the screen, as they provide a clear framework for the filmmakers to work with. Additionally, novels with complex characters and relationships can also be great candidates for film adaptation, as they offer a rich source of dramatic material. For example, novels like 'Gone Girl' and 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' were both huge successes on the big screen, and I think it's because they had a clear narrative drive and complex, well-developed characters that audiences could root for. The key is to find a novel that has a strong core story that can be distilled into a compelling film narrative.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

tap into

to connect with or access something, such as a feeling or a resource

The new marketing campaign tapped into the current trend of sustainable living.

The author's use of nostalgia tapped into the readers' sense of nostalgia.