Cue Card

Describe an ambition you have had for a long time

You should say:

• What it is
• What you have done to achieve it
• When you will achieve it
• And explain why you have this ambition.

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. What kind of ambitions do people have?
2. Why should parents encourage their children to be ambitious?
3. Should parents interfere with a child’s ambitions?
4. Are there any differences between the ambitions of a child and a grownup?

Sample Cue Card Answer

I've always been fascinated by the concept of sustainable living. Growing up, I spent countless hours watching documentaries about eco-friendly communities and innovative green technologies. One ambition that has stuck with me since my teenage years is to design and build my own self-sufficient, off-the-grid community. I envision a place where people can live in harmony with nature, relying on renewable energy sources and minimizing waste.

As I grew older, my interest in sustainable living only deepened. I began to explore different aspects of eco-friendly design, from permaculture to green architecture. I spent hours poring over designs for earthships, eco-villages, and sustainable cities. I even started experimenting with my own small-scale projects, like building a solar-powered birdhouse and creating a composting system for my family's kitchen scraps.

My dream community would be a place where people can thrive without harming the environment. I imagine it would be a vibrant, diverse community with a strong sense of cooperation and mutual support. We would grow our own food, harness our own energy, and create our own art and culture. It would be a place where people can live in balance with nature, and where the air is clean, the water is pure, and the land is fertile.

Of course, turning this vision into reality won't be easy. There are countless challenges to overcome, from securing funding to finding the right location. But I'm convinced that with determination, creativity, and a willingness to learn, we can make this vision a reality. And when we do, I believe it will be a beacon of hope for a more sustainable future – a future where humans and the planet can thrive together.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

off-the-grid

not connected to public utilities, such as electricity or water supply

The family lived off-the-grid in a remote cabin, relying on solar power and a well for their needs.

permaculture

a design system that aims to create sustainable and self-sufficient ecosystems

The permaculture garden was designed to produce a diverse range of fruits, vegetables, and herbs, using minimal external inputs.

Sample Part 3 Answers

What kind of ambitions do people have? People's ambitions can be incredibly diverse and often reflect their unique passions, values, and life experiences. For some, ambition might mean pursuing a high-powered career, like becoming a CEO or a renowned artist, while for others, it could be more personal, such as traveling the world, learning a new language, or mastering a musical instrument. What's interesting is that ambitions can also be deeply rooted in a desire to make a positive impact, whether that's through volunteering, starting a non-profit, or simply being a supportive partner or parent. Ultimately, ambitions are a reflection of what drives and motivates us, and they can evolve over time as we grow and learn more about ourselves and the world around us.

Why should parents encourage their children to be ambitious? Parents should encourage their children to be ambitious because it helps them develop a sense of purpose and direction in life. When kids have goals and aspirations, they're more likely to be motivated to learn, take risks, and push themselves outside of their comfort zones. This, in turn, can lead to increased confidence, resilience, and a growth mindset. By encouraging their children's ambitions, parents can help them develop a sense of agency and self-efficacy, which are essential for achieving their goals and realizing their full potential. Moreover, when parents support their children's ambitions, they're showing them that they believe in their abilities and are invested in their future success.

Should parents interfere with a child’s ambitions? While it's essential for parents to support and encourage their children's ambitions, it's equally important for them to know when to step back and let their children take the reins. Interfering with a child's ambitions can be detrimental to their development, as it can stifle their creativity, autonomy, and motivation. When parents impose their own ambitions or expectations on their children, it can lead to feelings of resentment, frustration, and even rebellion. Instead, parents should aim to strike a balance between offering guidance and support, while also giving their children the space to explore, learn from their mistakes, and develop their own interests and passions.

Are there any differences between the ambitions of a child and a grownup? While both children and adults can have ambitious goals, there are some key differences in the nature and scope of their ambitions. Children's ambitions are often more fluid and influenced by their immediate environment, peers, and family expectations. As they grow and mature, their ambitions may shift and evolve as they develop their own interests, values, and priorities. In contrast, adults' ambitions are often more concrete, driven by a sense of responsibility, financial security, and long-term goals. Adults may also have more resources and opportunities to pursue their ambitions, but may also face more significant obstacles and pressures. Ultimately, understanding and respecting the differences between children's and adults' ambitions can help us better support and nurture their development at every stage of life.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

strike a balance

to find a middle ground or compromise between two or more opposing things

The company needs to strike a balance between profits and social responsibility.

She's trying to strike a balance between work and family life.