Cue Card

Describe a time that you were shopping in a street market

You should say:

• When it was
• Where you were
• What you bought
• How you felt about the shopping experience

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. Where do you like to go shopping?
2. Why do some people prefer to shop in street markets?
3. Do you think the goods sold at discount stores are of poor quality?
4. Do you like shopping in big malls?
5. Why do some people like to buy expensive goods?

Sample Cue Card Answer

I was wandering through a crowded street market in Marrakech, Morocco, when I stumbled upon a tiny stall tucked away between a spice vendor and a textile merchant. The sign above the stall read 'Magic Carpets' and the colors and patterns of the rugs on display were so vibrant, they seemed to pulse with an energy all their own. The vendor, an elderly man with a kind face and a quick smile, greeted me with a warm 'As-salamu alaykum' and invited me to take a closer look.

As I began to browse, I noticed that each rug was uniquely imperfect – a slight flaw in the weaving here, a subtle mismatch in the dye there. The vendor noticed my fascination and began to explain the story behind each piece. He told me about the artisan who had spent months weaving a particular rug, only to have it rejected by a customer due to a tiny flaw. He told me about the tradition of intentionally including small mistakes in the weaving, as a reminder that perfection is an unattainable goal.

As I listened to the vendor's stories, I began to see the rugs in a new light. They were no longer just beautiful objects, but also testaments to the human touch – to the imperfections and quirks that make us unique. I ended up purchasing a stunning blue and gold rug, not just because of its beauty, but because of the story behind it. And every time I look at it, I'm reminded of the magic of that street market, and the people who bring it to life.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

tucked away

hidden or located in a secluded or out-of-the-way place

The restaurant was tucked away in a quiet alley.

The vendor's stall was tucked away between two larger shops.

pulse with energy

to vibrate or radiate energy or excitement

The city pulsed with energy on New Year's Eve.

The crowd pulsed with excitement as the concert began.

Sample Part 3 Answers

Where do you like to go shopping? You know, I'm a big fan of shopping in street markets. There's something about the energy of the crowds, the smells of the food, and the sounds of the vendors calling out to passersby that just makes for a really fun and immersive experience. Plus, I love the fact that you can find really unique, one-of-a-kind items that you wouldn't be able to find in a traditional mall or department store. For me, it's all about the thrill of the hunt – you never know what hidden gems you might stumble upon!

Why do some people prefer to shop in street markets? I think some people prefer shopping in street markets because it's a more personal and human experience. When you're shopping in a mall, it can feel really impersonal and sterile – you're just another customer to the sales associate, and they're just trying to make a sale. But in a street market, you're often buying directly from the person who made the item, or at least from someone who has a personal connection to it. That makes the shopping experience feel more authentic and meaningful. Plus, you're supporting local artisans and small business owners, which is a great way to give back to the community.

Do you think the goods sold at discount stores are of poor quality? I don't think that's necessarily true. Sure, some discount stores might sell lower-quality items, but that's not always the case. I've found some amazing deals on really high-quality items at discount stores – it's all about knowing what to look for and being willing to dig through the racks or shelves to find the hidden gems. Plus, sometimes you can find last season's styles or overstocked items at a fraction of the original price, and that can be a great way to score a bargain without sacrificing quality.

Do you like shopping in big malls? Honestly, I'm not a huge fan of shopping in big malls. I find them to be overwhelming and exhausting – there's just so much to see and do, and it can be hard to focus on what you're actually looking for. Plus, I don't love the feeling of being surrounded by all that consumerism and commercialism – it can feel really superficial and materialistic. Give me a quiet street market or a small, independent boutique any day!

Why do some people like to buy expensive goods? I think some people like to buy expensive goods because it's a status symbol – they want to show off their wealth and success. But for others, it's about the quality and craftsmanship of the item. When you're buying something expensive, you're often getting a product that's been made with high-quality materials and attention to detail, and that can be worth the extra cost. Plus, some people just enjoy the feeling of treating themselves to something special – it's a way to celebrate a milestone or reward themselves for their hard work.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

one-of-a-kind

unique, unlike anything else

The street market was full of one-of-a-kind souvenirs that I couldn't find anywhere else.