Cue Card

Describe a time you borrowed something from your friends or family

You should say:

• What it was
• When you borrowed it
• Who you borrowed it from
• What you did with it
• And why you borrowed it

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. Why do some people like to borrow things instead of buying them?
2. What would you do if someone didn’t repay money they’d borrowed from you?
3. Why are people embarrassed when they borrow money from others?
4. What do you think of the sharing economy?

Sample Cue Card Answer

I'll never forget the time I borrowed my best friend's car for a road trip. It was a sleek, black sedan with a sunroof and a killer sound system. I was so excited to hit the open road with my friends, but little did I know, this trip would be a lesson in responsibility. As we drove through the winding roads, the car's GPS led us astray, and we found ourselves lost in the middle of nowhere. Panic started to set in, but my friend's trust in me to return her car safely kept me focused. We finally made it back, a bit shaken but grateful for the experience.

That's when I realized the weight of borrowing something from someone. It's not just about using something that doesn't belong to you, it's about respecting the owner's trust and property. My friend could've easily said no, but she trusted me, and I was determined to prove her right.

Looking back, that experience taught me the value of responsibility and the importance of respecting others' belongings. It's a lesson that has stayed with me to this day, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to have learned it in such a memorable way.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

Bite off more than you can chew

To take on more responsibility or tasks than you are capable of handling

I think I've bitten off more than I can chew with this new project.

She's taken on too many tasks, I think she's bitten off more than she can chew.

Sample Part 3 Answers

Why do some people like to borrow things instead of buying them? One reason people might prefer borrowing over buying is that it can be a more affordable and flexible option. For instance, let's say you need a power tool for a one-time project, but you don't want to spend a few hundred dollars on something you'll only use once. Borrowing from a friend or neighbor can be a convenient way to get what you need without breaking the bank. Plus, it can also be a great way to reduce waste and support a sharing economy.

What would you do if someone didn’t repay money they’d borrowed from you? If someone didn't repay money they'd borrowed from me, I'd first try to have an open and honest conversation with them about it. I'd want to understand their situation and see if there's a valid reason for the delay. If it's just a matter of forgetfulness, I might send them a friendly reminder. However, if it's a more serious issue, I'd need to reevaluate our relationship and consider setting boundaries to protect myself from similar situations in the future. After all, trust is a two-way street, and it's essential to maintain healthy boundaries in any relationship.

Why are people embarrassed when they borrow money from others? I think people often feel embarrassed when borrowing money from others because it can be perceived as a sign of financial instability or weakness. There's a stigma attached to asking for help, especially when it comes to money. Additionally, borrowing from friends or family can blur the lines of the relationship, making it feel more like a business transaction than a personal connection. This can lead to feelings of guilt, anxiety, or even shame, making people hesitant to ask for help when they need it.

What do you think of the sharing economy? I think the sharing economy is a fantastic concept that promotes collaboration, sustainability, and community building. By sharing resources, we can reduce waste, save money, and build stronger relationships with those around us. For example, services like bike-sharing or car-sharing programs not only reduce the number of vehicles on the road but also provide an affordable alternative to owning a car. Similarly, platforms like Airbnb or couchsurfing facilitate cultural exchange and create opportunities for people to connect with others from different backgrounds. Overall, the sharing economy has the potential to create a more connected, eco-friendly, and equitable society.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

break the ice

to do or say something to relax and make people feel more comfortable in a social situation

When I first met my roommate, we broke the ice by talking about our shared love of hiking.