Cue Card

Describe an enjoyable dinner you had with friends

You should say:

• Who organized it
• What you ate
• What you talked about
• And explain why you enjoyed it.

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. Why do people like to have food on special occasions?
2. What’s the difference between eating at home and eating out for a special occasion?
3. What part of a nation’s identity is reflected in their cuisine?
4. Why do global leaders like to gather together for dinner?

Sample Cue Card Answer

I'm a firm believer that the best meals are the ones you don't plan. Like that one summer evening when a bunch of friends and I stumbled upon a tiny Italian place in the city. We were all craving something hearty, and the aroma of freshly baked pizza dough wafting from the kitchen was like a siren's call. We squeezed in at the bar, and the bartender, a charismatic Italian guy with a wild look in his eye, started regaling us with stories of his nonna's cooking secrets.

The pasta dishes started arriving, and it was like a flavor bomb went off at the table. We were all oohing and aahing over the handmade fettuccine, the bartender told us, were made with a special type of flour from his hometown in Italy). And then, just as we were getting comfortable, he brings out this massive platter of arancini – crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and stuffed with the most tender beef and mozzarella. We were all in awe, and I swear, it was like we were transported to the Tuscan countryside for a hot second.

The best part? The bartender joined us for a glass of wine and started telling us about his family's recipes, passed down through generations. It was like we were part of the family for the night. We laughed, we joked, and we devoured that food like it was going out of style. And when we finally stumbled out of there, bellies full and grinning from ear to ear, I knew that was a night – and a meal – I'd never forget.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

stumbled upon

to find or discover something by chance

We stumbled upon a great little café while exploring the city.

I stumbled upon an amazing book at the library.

Sample Part 3 Answers

Why do people like to have food on special occasions? I think people love having food on special occasions because it adds an extra layer of celebration to the event. When we gather around the table to share a meal, it's not just about sustenance, it's about connection and community. Food has a way of bringing people together, and when it's a special occasion, the food becomes an integral part of the celebration. For example, think about holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas - the food is often the centerpiece of the gathering. It's a time to indulge in traditional dishes, try new flavors, and create memories with loved ones. The act of sharing a meal together creates a sense of togetherness and makes the occasion feel more special.

What’s the difference between eating at home and eating out for a special occasion? When it comes to special occasions, eating out can be a game-changer. For one, it takes the pressure off the host to cook and clean, allowing everyone to relax and enjoy each other's company. Plus, restaurants often offer a unique atmosphere and ambiance that can elevate the occasion. Think about it, when you go out to a nice restaurant, you're not just paying for the food, you're paying for the experience - the decor, the service, the music. It's a chance to create a memorable night out with friends or loved ones, and the food is just the beginning. At home, on the other hand, it's more intimate and cozy, but it can be a lot more work for the host. Either way, the key is to choose an option that fits the occasion and the group's vibe, and to make sure the food is delicious and enjoyable for everyone involved.

What part of a nation’s identity is reflected in their cuisine? A nation's cuisine is often a reflection of its history, culture, and values. The types of ingredients used, the cooking techniques employed, and the dishes that are considered staples all tell a story about the people and their way of life. For example, in Japan, the emphasis on fresh seafood and seasonality reflects the country's strong connection to the ocean and the changing seasons. In Italy, the love of pasta and rich sauces speaks to the country's rich history of family and community. Even the spices and seasonings used in a particular cuisine can reveal clues about a nation's cultural heritage. When we sit down to enjoy a traditional meal from another culture, we're not just tasting the food, we're experiencing a piece of that culture's identity.

Why do global leaders like to gather together for dinner? Global leaders often gather for dinner because it provides a unique opportunity for informal diplomacy. When leaders sit down to share a meal, it's not just about the food - it's about building relationships and fostering diplomacy. When you're breaking bread with someone, you're more likely to build trust and establish a connection. It's a chance for leaders to put aside their formal roles and get to know each other on a more personal level. Plus, a dinner setting can be less formal than a traditional meeting, allowing for more candid conversations and creative problem-solving. Think about it, some of the most significant deals and agreements have been made over a meal, and it's not just about the food - it's about the connections and relationships that are forged over the dinner table.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

break bread

to share a meal with someone, often in order to build a relationship or establish trust

The two leaders broke bread at a dinner meeting to discuss trade agreements.

The team went out to break bread and get to know each other better.