Cue Card

Describe a time when you spoke in a foreign language for the first time

You should say:

• Where you were
• Who you were with
• What you talked about
• And explain how you felt about it.

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. At what age should children start learning a foreign language?
2. What’s more important, speaking or writing?
3. Does a person still need to learn other languages if they’re good at English?
4. Do you think minority languages will disappear?

Sample Cue Card Answer

I was 19, standing in a crowded market in Tokyo, desperately trying to order a simple bowl of ramen. I had been studying Japanese for months, but this was my first time speaking it outside of a classroom. I took a deep breath, pointed to the menu, and said 'Kono ramen o kudasai' – 'I'll have this ramen, please.' The vendor looked at me, surprised, and responded in rapid-fire Japanese. I panicked, my mind going blank. But then, something clicked, and I replied, 'Arigatou gozaimasu' – 'thank you.' He smiled, and we exchanged a few more phrases. It was exhilarating, like a dam had burst and suddenly I was communicating in a whole new way.

That moment was a turning point for me. I realized that speaking a foreign language wasn't just about memorizing grammar rules and vocabulary; it was about connection, about being able to express myself and understand others in a new way. From that day on, I made it a point to speak Japanese every chance I got. I struck up conversations with strangers, practiced with language exchange partners, and even watched Japanese TV shows without subtitles.

Looking back, that first conversation was a tiny moment, but it opened up a whole new world for me. It taught me that language is a tool, not a barrier. And it showed me that with a little courage and practice, I could connect with people from a sense of excitement and possibility.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

Kono ramen o kudasai

A polite way to order food in Japanese, literally 'this ramen, please'

At a restaurant: 'Kono sushi o kudasai' – 'I'll have this sushi, please.'

Arigatou gozaimasu

A polite way to say 'thank you' in Japanese, literally 'thank you very much'

At a store: 'Arigatou gozaimasu' – 'thank you'; At a restaurant: 'Arigatou gozaimasu' – 'thank you for the meal'

Sample Part 3 Answers

At what age should children start learning a foreign language? I firmly believe that the earlier, the better when it comes to introducing children to a foreign language. Research has shown that children as young as a few months old can differentiate between sounds from different languages, and this ability only improves with age. Starting early not only helps them develop a more authentic accent but also enhances their cognitive abilities, such as memory and problem-solving skills. Moreover, learning a foreign language at a young age can broaden their cultural understanding and appreciation, making them more empathetic and open-minded individuals. My niece, for instance, started learning Spanish when she was just three years old, and by the time she was six, she was already holding basic conversations with her abuela. It's truly amazing to see how quickly they pick it up and how it shapes their worldview.

What’s more important, speaking or writing? While both speaking and writing are crucial aspects of language learning, I think speaking takes precedence. Being able to communicate effectively with native speakers is what language is all about, and speaking is the most direct way to do so. When I first started learning French, I focused too much on writing, thinking that it would help me improve my speaking skills. However, I quickly realized that the more I spoke, the more confident I became in my ability to communicate. Speaking allows you to pick up on nuances, idioms, and expressions that are often lost in writing. Plus, it's a more interactive way of learning, as you get immediate feedback from the person you're speaking with. Of course, writing is essential for formal communication, but if I had to choose, I'd say speaking is the more important of the two.

Does a person still need to learn other languages if they’re good at English? Absolutely, being proficient in English is not a free pass to ignore other languages. While English is widely spoken and often used as a lingua franca, there are still many situations where knowing another language can be incredibly valuable. For instance, if you're working in international business or diplomacy, speaking the local language can give you a significant edge in negotiations and building relationships. Moreover, learning another language can also broaden your cultural understanding and appreciation, allowing you to connect with people on a deeper level. I have a friend who's fluent in English but also speaks Mandarin, and she's been able to land job opportunities in China that wouldn't have been possible otherwise. Plus, in today's globalized world, being multilingual can only be an asset, not a liability.

Do you think minority languages will disappear? Unfortunately, I think it's a very real possibility that many minority languages will disappear in the coming decades. With globalization and urbanization, many indigenous communities are being assimilated into dominant cultures, leading to a decline in the use of their native languages. Additionally, the lack of documentation and education in these languages can make it difficult for younger generations to learn and preserve them. However, there are also many efforts underway to revitalize and promote minority languages, such as language immersion programs and cultural festivals. I've had the opportunity to work with a community in Hawaii that's working to revive the Hawaiian language, and it's amazing to see the passion and dedication of the people involved. While the outlook may seem bleak, I believe that with concerted efforts, we can help preserve these languages and the cultures they represent.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

lingua franca

a language that is widely used and accepted as a common means of communication among people of different native languages

English is often used as a lingua franca in international business.

Many people in Africa use French as a lingua franca to communicate with people from different countries.