Cue Card

Describe a time that you had to change your plans

You should say:

• When this happened
• What made you change the plan
• What the new plan was
• And how you felt about the change.

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. Do old people often change plans?
2. Do young people like to change plans?
3. What are the common reasons for people needing to change their plans?
4. How would you tell your friends you need to change a plan?
5. What kinds of plans are practical plans are practical?

Sample Cue Card Answer

I was supposed to spend my 30th birthday backpacking through Europe with my best friend. We'd been planning this trip for years, pouring over maps and guidebooks, saving up our paychecks, and counting down the days until we could ditch our 9-to-5s and hit the open road. But life had other plans. Two weeks before our departure date, my friend's mom was diagnosed with a serious illness, and suddenly our trip was put on hold. I was devastated. This was supposed to be the adventure of a lifetime, and now it seemed like it was being ripped away from us.

But as I sat with my friend, trying to process this unexpected twist, something shifted. We started brainstorming alternative plans, and before long, we'd hatched a new scheme. We'd spend the next two weeks helping my friend's family, taking care of her mom, and being there for her when she needed us most. It wasn't the European adventure we'd envisioned, but it ended up being exactly what we needed. We learned that sometimes the best plans are the ones you don't plan for, and that flexibility can lead to experiences you never could have anticipated.

Looking back, that trip taught me a valuable lesson about adaptability and the importance of being present in the moment. It's easy to get caught up in our expectations and plans, but life is full of unexpected twists and turns. By being open to change and willing to pivot, we can turn what seems like a disappointment into an opportunity for growth and connection.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

roll with the punches

to adapt to changing circumstances and make the best of a situation

When my friend's mom got sick, we had to roll with the punches and change our plans.

Sample Part 3 Answers

Do old people often change plans? I think older adults tend to be more set in their ways and often have more rigid schedules, so they might not change plans as frequently as younger people. This is because they may have more responsibilities, such as taking care of grandchildren or managing health conditions, that make it harder to be spontaneous. Additionally, older adults may have more established routines and habits that make it harder to adjust to changes in plans. That being said, older adults can still be flexible and adapt to changes in plans if needed, especially if it's something important like a family gathering or a medical appointment.

Do young people like to change plans? I think young people tend to be more open to changing plans because they're more likely to have a 'go with a flexible mindset and are more likely to be spontaneous and adapt to new situations. Young people are often more open to new experiences and are more likely to change plans if something better comes up, like a last-minute concert ticket or a fun outdoor activity.

What are the common reasons for people needing to change their plans? One common reason people need to change plans is due to unexpected events like bad weather. For instance, if it's supposed to rain on the day of a planned hike, it might be better to reschedule for a sunnier day. Another reason is a personal or family emergency, such as a sudden illness or a family member needing help. Sometimes, people may need to change plans because of work or school obligations, like a last-minute deadline or a scheduled exam. Lastly, plans can change due to financial constraints or a change in personal preferences.

How would you tell your friends you need to change a plan? If I needed to change plans with my friends, I would first acknowledge their time and effort in making the original plan, and then explain the reason for the change in a clear and concise manner. I would say something like, 'Hey guys, I'm so sorry but something unexpected came up and I need to change our plans. I know we were all looking forward to it, but I hope you can understand. Let's reschedule for another time that works for everyone.' I would also offer alternative solutions or dates to make up for the change, and make sure to show appreciation for their flexibility and understanding.

What kinds of plans are practical plans are practical? I think practical plans are those that are flexible and take into account the possibility of changes or unexpected events. For example, planning a picnic in a park with a backup indoor location in case of bad weather is a practical plan. Another example is planning a trip with a buffer day in case of flight delays or cancellations. Having a plan B or a flexible itinerary can help minimize stress and make the most of your time. Additionally, planning ahead and leaving some free time in your schedule can also be practical, as it allows for spontaneity and flexibility. Overall, practical plans are those that are adaptable and take into account the unpredictability of life.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

Plan B

A backup plan or alternative plan in case the original plan fails or is not possible

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Buffer day

A day of extra time built into a schedule to account for unexpected delays or changes

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Flexible itinerary

A schedule or plan that can be easily changed or adjusted

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