Cue Card

Describe a time when you bought something from a street market

You should say:

• When it was
• Where the market was
• What you bought
• And describe how you felt about it.

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. What kinds of markets are there in your country?
2. Do you think small markets will disappear in the future?
3. Have people’s shopping habits changed in recent years?
4. What are the differences between shopping at a street market and shopping in a big shopping mall?

Sample Cue Card Answer

I'll never forget the vibrant colors and cacophony of sounds that hit me as I walked through the crowded streets of Marrakech. The smell of spices and fresh bread wafted through the air, making my stomach growl with anticipation. I had been warned about the infamous haggling that came with shopping in the medina, but I was determined to find the perfect souvenir. That's when I spotted it - a beautifully crafted wooden box with intricate patterns and a delicate latch. The vendor, an old man with a kind smile, quoted me a price that was way out of my budget. But I was smitten. I offered him a lower price, and we went back and forth, each of us trying to outdo the other in a game of cat and mouse. Finally, we settled on a price, and I walked away with my prize, feeling like I'd scored a victory.

As I held the box in my hands, I couldn't help but think about the countless hours the vendor must have spent crafting it. The attention to detail, the precision, the love that went into creating something so beautiful. It was more than just a purchase - it was a connection to the person who made it, to the culture that inspired it, and to the memories I created in that moment. And that's what I love about street markets - they're not just places to buy stuff, they're gateways to stories, to people, and to experiences that stay with you long after you've left the market behind.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

haggling

the act of negotiating the price of something, often in an informal or aggressive way

The vendor and I went back and forth, haggling over the price of the wooden box.

Sample Part 3 Answers

What kinds of markets are there in your country? In the United States, we have a diverse range of markets that cater to different tastes and preferences. One of the most common types of markets is the farmers' market, where local farmers sell fresh produce, meats, and dairy products directly to consumers. These markets are usually held outdoors on weekends and are a great way to support local agriculture and get some amazing deals on fresh food. We also have flea markets, which are essentially giant garage sales where people sell everything from vintage clothing to antique furniture. And then there are the specialty markets, like craft fairs and artisan markets, where local artisans sell handmade goods like jewelry, pottery, and textiles.

Do you think small markets will disappear in the future? I don't think small markets will disappear anytime soon. In fact, I think they'll continue to thrive as people become more interested in supporting local businesses and unique, authentic experiences. Small markets offer a sense of community and connection that you just can't find in big-box stores or online shopping. Plus, they provide a platform for entrepreneurs and artisans to showcase their talents and connect with customers in a way that's just not possible in a larger retail setting. As long as there are people who value individuality and community, small markets will continue to have a place in our society.

Have people’s shopping habits changed in recent years? Absolutely, people's shopping habits have changed dramatically in recent years. With the rise of online shopping, many people have shifted their spending habits to the internet. However, I think there's also been a backlash against that trend, with more people seeking out unique, tactile experiences that they can't find online. That's why I think small markets and local businesses have seen a resurgence in popularity. People are looking for ways to connect with their communities and support local economies, and shopping at small markets is a way to do that. Plus, with the growing awareness of sustainability and environmental issues, people are thinking more critically about where their money is going and what kind of impact it's having.

What are the differences between shopping at a street market and shopping in a big shopping mall? The main difference between shopping at a street market and shopping in a big shopping mall is the experience itself. When you shop at a street market, you're not just buying products – you're immersing yourself in a community and a culture. You're surrounded by sights, sounds, and smells that are unique to that market, and you have the opportunity to interact with the people who made the products you're buying. In contrast, shopping malls can feel sterile and impersonal, with rows of identical storefronts and a focus on efficiency over experience. Plus, at a street market, you're often getting products that are made locally, so you're supporting the local economy and getting something truly unique.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

Support local

To give financial or moral support to local businesses, organizations, or individuals.

By shopping at the farmer's market, I'm supporting local farmers and the local economy.

The city is trying to support local artists by providing them with free studio space.