Cue Card

Describe an ideal house

You should say:

• Where this place is
• What it is like
• When you would like to live there
• And explain why it is ideal to you

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. What are the differences between living in the city and the countryside?
2. What are the disadvantages of living in a city?
3. What were cities like in the past compared to today’s cities?

Sample Cue Card Answer

You know, I've always thought that the concept of a dream home is deeply personal. It's a reflection of who we are, what we value, and how we want to live. For me, an ideal house isn't just about the physical space itself, but about the experiences and emotions it evokes. I envision a home that's a seamless blend of sustainability, technology, and nature. Imagine waking up to the sound of birds chirping, with sunlight streaming in through the floor-to-ceiling windows that make up the entire east wall of your bedroom. The glass is specially designed to filter in the perfect amount of natural light, so you're never too hot or too cold. And with the touch of a button, the windows can darken to simulate a sunset, helping regulate your circadian rhythms.

The house itself is a marvel of eco-friendly design. The exterior is clad in reclaimed wood and low-maintenance greenery, which not only looks amazing but also provides natural insulation. Solar panels on the roof generate more than enough energy to power the entire house, and the water is harvested from a state-of-the-art rainwater collection system. But what really sets this house apart is its integration with the surrounding environment. The property is designed to be a wildlife sanctuary, with native plants and trees that attract local species and support the ecosystem.

Inside, the house is a haven of innovation. The walls are adorned with smart panels that can display anything from your favorite artwork to real-time data on your energy usage. The kitchen is equipped with appliances that can recognize the ingredients you're using and suggest recipes based on your dietary needs and preferences. And the best part? The house is designed to be fully accessible and adaptable, so it can evolve with you as your needs change over time. It's not just a house – it's a partner in your journey towards a more sustainable, more connected, and more fulfilling life.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

seamless blend

a combination of two or more things that work together perfectly, without any noticeable differences or problems

The new policy aims to create a seamless blend of work and leisure time for employees.

floor-to-ceiling windows

windows that extend from the floor to the ceiling, providing an unobstructed view and a sense of openness

The living room features floor-to-ceiling windows that offer breathtaking views of the city skyline.

state-of-the-art

the most advanced or modern technology, design, or method available

The new hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment, ensuring the best possible care for patients.

haven

a safe or peaceful place

The library is my haven, where I can escape the stress of everyday life and focus on my studies.

Sample Part 3 Answers

What are the differences between living in the city and the countryside? Living in the city versus the countryside is like two completely different worlds. One of the main differences that comes to mind is the pace of life. In the city, everything is fast-paced and always on the go. People rush to get to work, to catch the bus, or to get to their next appointment. It's a constant hustle and bustle that can be overwhelming at times. On the other hand, the countryside is much more relaxed. People have more time to stop and smell the roses, literally. They can take a deep breath of fresh air, listen to the birds chirping, and enjoy the peacefulness of nature. It's a much slower pace of life that allows people to unwind and recharge.

What are the disadvantages of living in a city? One of the biggest disadvantages of living in a city is the lack of personal space. Cities are crowded and noisy, with people packed like sardines into tiny apartments and houses. It's not uncommon to hear your neighbors arguing or the sound of car horns blaring outside your window at all hours of the night. This can be really frustrating, especially if you're someone who values your alone time or likes to have a bit of quiet. Additionally, cities are often plagued by pollution and traffic congestion, which can make it difficult to get around and enjoy the outdoors. It's not all bad, of course, but these are definitely some of the downsides to city living.

What were cities like in the past compared to today’s cities? Cities have undergone a huge transformation over the years. If you think back to the past, cities were often much smaller and more compact. They were usually centered around a town square or a main street, with shops and restaurants clustered together. People knew their neighbors and the local business owners, and there was a real sense of community. Fast forward to today, and cities are sprawling metropolises with towering skyscrapers and endless options for entertainment and dining. While we've gained a lot in terms of convenience and opportunity, I think we've lost some of that community feel. Don't get me wrong, I love the diversity and energy of modern cities, but sometimes I wish we could go back to a simpler time when people actually knew and looked out for one another.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

stop and smell the roses

to take time to appreciate and enjoy the small pleasures in life

I've been so busy lately, I need to stop and smell the roses and remember what's truly important.