Cue Card

Describe an art or craft class (eg painting, woodwork, etc) that you’ve taken

You should say:

• What you made
• How you made it
• What it looked like
• And how you felt about the class.

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. What kind of handmade items are popular in your country?
2. What do young people think of handmade items?
3. Do people in your country send handmade gifts?
4. What are the benefits of making something yourself?

Sample Cue Card Answer

I'll never forget the first time I stepped into a glassblowing studio. I'd always been fascinated by the way glass could be molded and shaped into these intricate, delicate forms. I mean, it's like magic, right? You take this molten, glowing material and shape it into something beautiful. I was hooked from the very start.

The class was intense – we're talking 2000-degree furnaces, flames shooting up to the ceiling, and a studio that felt like a sauna. But the instructor, Rachel, was amazing. She had this calm, gentle way of guiding us through the process, even when we were all freaking out because our pieces were melting or collapsing. She'd just smile and say, 'It's okay, it's all part of the process.'

As I worked on my first piece, a simple vase, I realized that glassblowing isn't just about creating something beautiful – it's also about understanding the material, respecting its limitations, and working with it. It's a dance, really. You have to feel the glass, anticipate its movements, and guide it into the shape you want. It's meditative, in a way.

But what really struck me was the sense of community in that studio. We were all there to learn, to create, and to support each other. When someone's piece didn't turn out as expected, we'd all rally around them, offering advice and encouragement. It was this beautiful, collaborative energy that I'd never experienced before.

As I left the studio that day, exhausted but exhilarated, I realized that glassblowing had taught me something much deeper than just a new skill. It had taught me about patience, persistence, and the value of community. And, of course, it had given me a newfound appreciation for the art of glassblowing – and the incredible people who make it happen.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

completely interested or attracted to something

I was hooked on the TV show from the first episode.

She's hooked on playing video games.

an expected or necessary step in a process or situation

Making mistakes is part of the learning process.

Dealing with traffic is part of commuting.

a harmonious or cooperative interaction between two or more people or things

The chef and the sous chef worked together like a well-choreographed dance.

The conversation flowed like a dance, with each person responding to the other.

Sample Part 3 Answers

What kind of handmade items are popular in your country? In the United States, handmade items are really popular, especially when it comes to home decor and personalized gifts. I think this is because people are looking for unique and meaningful items that reflect their individuality. For instance, handmade pottery, woodwork, and textiles are always in high demand. People love the idea of owning something that's been crafted with love and care, rather than mass-produced in a factory. Plus, buying handmade supports local artists and small businesses, which is a big plus in my book.

What do young people think of handmade items? From what I've observed, young people today have a real appreciation for handmade items. They value the craftsmanship and the story behind each piece. Many of them are also very environmentally conscious, so they appreciate the sustainability of buying handmade, which often means less waste and a lower carbon footprint. Plus, with the rise of social media, young people are exposed to so many talented makers and artisans, which has helped to fuel their interest in handmade goods. I think it's great to see this younger generation valuing the human touch and the unique character that comes with handmade items.

Do people in your country send handmade gifts? Absolutely, people in the US love sending handmade gifts! There's something special about receiving a gift that's been made with thought and effort. Handmade gifts are often seen as more personal and meaningful than store-bought ones. For example, during holidays like Christmas or birthdays, people might make their own cards, bake their own treats, or even knit or sew gifts for their loved ones. It's a way to show you care, and that you're willing to take the time to create something special just for them. I think this tradition of handmade gifting is a big part of American culture, and it's something that's passed down from generation to generation.

What are the benefits of making something yourself? I think one of the biggest benefits of making something yourself is the sense of accomplishment and pride you feel when you're done. When you create something with your own hands, you're not just making an object – you're creating a part of yourself. You're putting your time, effort, and love into it, and that's something that's hard to replicate with store-bought items. Plus, making something yourself allows you to customize it to your exact specifications, so you can ensure it's exactly what you want. And, of course, there's the added benefit of learning a new skill and developing your creativity. Whether it's woodworking, painting, or cooking, making something yourself is a great way to challenge yourself and grow as a person.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

with love and care

made with attention and devotion

She made the cake with love and care for her sister's birthday.

The handmade pottery was crafted with love and care, and you could tell.

the human touch

the quality of being made or done by a person, rather than a machine

The handmade gifts had a certain human touch that you just can't replicate with mass-produced items.

The company prides itself on adding a personal human touch to every customer interaction.

passed down from generation to generation

handed down or transmitted from one generation to the next

The family recipe was passed down from generation to generation, and now it's a beloved tradition.

The handmade quilt was passed down from generation to generation, and it's still in great condition.