Cue Card

Describe a time you visited a new place

You should say:

• Where it was
• How you got there
• Why you went there
• And explain how you felt about the place.

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. Would you rather visit a city or live there permanently?
2. How do young people react when they go to school for the first?
3. How do young and old people react differently to new things?
4. Why do some people want to go to college far away from home?

Sample Cue Card Answer

I stepped off the train in Tokyo, and the humidity hit me like a slap in the face. I'd never been to Asia before, and the cacophony of sounds, smells, and sights was overwhelming. Towering skyscrapers gave way to ancient temples, and neon lights reflected off the wet pavement. I felt like a small fish in a sea of strangers, but I was determined to dive in headfirst.

My friend, a Tokyo native, met me at the station and whisked me away to a tiny ramen shop in the Shibuya ward. The steaming bowl of noodles was love at first slurp, and I was hooked. We spent the next few days exploring the city, from the tranquil gardens of the Meiji Shrine to the bustling streets of Harajuku. Every experience was a sensory overload in the best possible way.

But it was the little moments that stuck with me – the elderly woman who offered me a warm smile and a sample of her homemade mochi, the street performer who juggled fire while riding a unicycle, the group of salarymen who invited me to join their impromptu karaoke session. These fleeting encounters humanized the city, reminding me that even in a place as vast and foreign as Tokyo, connection is always within reach.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

dive in headfirst

to start doing something new or challenging with enthusiasm and energy, without hesitation

I decided to dive in headfirst and learn how to surf.

She dove in headfirst and started her own business.

sensory overload

a situation where there is too much information or stimulation for the senses to process

The fireworks display was a sensory overload, with so many colors and sounds.

The crowded market was a sensory overload, with smells and sounds competing for attention.

humanized

to make something or someone seem more relatable or endearing

The documentary humanized the refugees, showing their stories and struggles.

The comedian's jokes humanized the politician, making them seem more down-to-earth.

Sample Part 3 Answers

Would you rather visit a city or live there permanently? You know, I think I would rather visit a city than live there permanently. For me, the excitement of exploring a new city is all about the novelty and the thrill of discovery. When I visit a city, I love being able to try new foods, visit famous landmarks, and soak up the local culture without the responsibility of daily life getting in the way. If I were to live in a city permanently, I think I would start to take those things for granted, and the city would just become my normal routine. Plus, I think I would miss the sense of adventure and freedom that comes with being a visitor.

How do young people react when they go to school for the first? I remember when my little cousin started kindergarten for the first time. She was so nervous and excited at the same time. She had never been in a classroom setting before, and the thought of making new friends and learning new things was a bit overwhelming for her. At first, she clung to her mom's leg and didn't want to let go, but as soon as she saw all the toys and colorful posters in the classroom, her curiosity took over and she started to explore. I think that's how most young people react when they go to school for the first time - it's a mix of nerves and excitement, but ultimately, their natural curiosity and desire to learn takes over.

How do young and old people react differently to new things? I've noticed that young people tend to be more open-minded and adaptable when it comes to new things. They're like sponges, soaking up new experiences and information like it's going out of style. They're not afraid to try new foods, visit new places, or take risks. On the other hand, older people tend to be more set in their ways and may be more hesitant to try new things. They may have established routines and preferences that they're not willing to deviate from. However, I think that's because they've had more life experience and have learned what works for them. They may be more cautious, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. I think it's just a natural part of aging and gaining wisdom.

Why do some people want to go to college far away from home? I think some people want to go to college far away from home because they're looking for a fresh start or a chance to reinvent themselves. Maybe they felt like they didn't quite fit in with their high school crowd, or maybe they want to experience a new part of the country. Whatever the reason, I think it's because they're looking for a sense of independence and autonomy that comes with being on their own. When you're in a new place, you're forced to navigate unfamiliar surroundings, make new friends, and figure things out for yourself. It's a chance to prove to yourself that you can handle challenges and make it on your own. Plus, it's a great opportunity to broaden your horizons and gain new perspectives that you might not have gotten if you stayed close to home.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms