Cue Card

Describe an area of science (biology, robotics, etc) that you are interested in and would like to learn more about

You should say:

• what the area of science is
• how you were first introduced to it
• how you could learn more about it; and,
• explain why you are interested in it.

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. Why do some children dislike learning about science at school?
2. Is it important to study science at school?
3. Which subject of science is most important for children to learn?
4. Should people continue to study science after graduation?
5. What are some ways you can learn about new scientific advancements?
6. Should scientists explain their research to the general public?

Sample Cue Card Answer

I've always been fascinated by the field of synthetic biology. I mean, can you imagine being able to design and construct new biological systems, like microorganisms, to perform specific functions? It's like something straight out of science fiction. I'd love to learn more about the latest advancements in this field, especially in the area of biofuels and sustainable energy. The idea of using microorganisms to produce clean energy is just incredible. I've heard of scientists using microbes to convert plant biomass into biofuels, which could potentially replace fossil fuels and reduce our reliance on them. It's mind-blowing to think about the impact this could have on the environment.

I'd also love to explore the intersection of synthetic biology and medicine. I've read about researchers using synthetic biology to develop new treatments for diseases, like cancer. They're using genetic engineering to create microorganisms that can target and destroy cancer cells, while leaving healthy cells intact. It's a game-changer. The possibilities are endless, and I'm excited to see where this field takes us in the future. The potential to revolutionize healthcare and save lives is huge.

What really draws me to synthetic biology, though, is the collaboration between biologists, engineers, and computer scientists. It's an incredible example of interdisciplinary research, where experts from different fields come together to solve complex problems. I think this kind of collaboration is essential for driving innovation and making real progress in the field. I'd love to learn more about the latest breakthroughs and advancements in synthetic biology, and how it can be applied to real-world problems.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

straight out of science fiction

something that seems too amazing or unrealistic to be true, but is actually real

The new technology is straight out of science fiction, it's incredible!

Sample Part 3 Answers

Why do some children dislike learning about science at school? I think some children might dislike learning about science at school because it can be really abstract and hard to relate to their everyday lives. For example, when you're learning about cells and DNA, it can be tough to see how that applies to your own life. Maybe they're not interested in the specific topics being taught, or maybe the way it's being taught is just not engaging for them. But I think if we could find ways to make science more hands-on and interactive, and show kids how it's used in real-life scenarios, they might start to see it as more relevant and interesting.

Is it important to study science at school? Absolutely, studying science at school is crucial for kids to develop critical thinking skills and learn how to approach problems in a logical and methodical way. Science teaches you how to ask questions, design experiments, and analyze data, which are skills that are useful in all areas of life. Plus, science is all around us, from the technology we use to the environment we live in, so having a basic understanding of scientific principles can help kids make informed decisions and navigate the world more effectively.

Which subject of science is most important for children to learn? I think environmental science is really important for kids to learn about, especially nowadays. We're facing so many pressing issues like climate change, pollution, and conservation, and kids need to understand the impact of human actions on the planet. By learning about environmental science, kids can develop a sense of responsibility and stewardship for the Earth, and learn ways to live more sustainably. It's not just about the science itself, but also about developing values and habits that will benefit them and future generations.

Should people continue to study science after graduation? Definitely, science is a constantly evolving field, and there's always more to learn. Even if someone isn't pursuing a career in science, staying up-to-date with the latest developments can help them make informed decisions about their health, the environment, and technology. Plus, science is a great way to keep your mind sharp and curious, and can be a fun and rewarding hobby. With the internet and online resources, it's easier than ever to continue learning about science, whether it's through podcasts, documentaries, or online courses.

What are some ways you can learn about new scientific advancements? There are so many ways to learn about new scientific advancements, and it's easier than ever with the internet. I think podcasts are a great way to stay current, there are tons of science podcasts out there that break down complex topics into easy-to-understand language. Documentaries and science YouTube channels are also great resources. And if you want to dive deeper, online courses and MOOCs are a great way to learn from experts in the field. You can also follow scientists and researchers on social media to get a behind-the-scenes look at their work and stay up-to-date on the latest breakthroughs.

Should scientists explain their research to the general public? Scientists have a responsibility to share their research with the public, because ultimately, it's the public that's funding their work and will be impacted by their discoveries. By explaining their research in a clear and accessible way, scientists can help build trust and understanding, and show how their research is relevant to people's lives. It's not just about sharing the results, but also about sharing the process and the thinking behind the research, so people can understand the value and importance of scientific inquiry.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

hands-on

practical and interactive

make science more hands-on and interactive

stewardship

the responsibility to take care of something

develop a sense of responsibility and stewardship for the Earth

stay up-to-date

to keep informed about the latest developments

stay up-to-date with the latest developments in science

behind-the-scenes

the parts of a process or situation that are not usually seen by the public

get a behind-the-scenes look at their work

build trust

to establish a feeling of confidence and reliability

help build trust and understanding