Cue Card

Describe an important decision that was made with the help of someone else

You should say:

• What the decision was
• When it was made
• Who helped you make the decision
• And how you felt about it

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. Should we trust advice given by strangers when it comes to making decisions?
2. Who are more likely to make bad decisions, men or women?
3. Who could be helpful when you’re making a decision?
4. Do you think it’s a good idea to listen to others’ advice when making a decision?
5. When young people make a decision, should they listen to the advice of others?

Sample Cue Card Answer

I was stuck between a rock and a hard place when I had to decide whether to take a job offer in New York or stay in my hometown and pursue my passion for photography. I was torn between the security of a steady paycheck and the uncertainty of chasing my dreams. That's when I turned to my best friend, Rachel, for advice. She's always been the voice of reason in my life, and I knew she'd give it to me straight.

We sat down over coffee, and I laid out my pros and cons list. Rachel listened attentively, asking questions and poking holes in my arguments. She pointed out that the job offer was a great opportunity, but it would mean putting my photography on the backburner. She also reminded me that I'd always regret not taking a chance on my passion. Her words struck a chord, and I realized that I was prioritizing the wrong things.

With Rachel's guidance, I decided to turn down the job offer and focus on building my photography business. It wasn't an easy decision, but it was the right one. I'm now doing what I love, and I owe it to Rachel for helping me see things clearly. Her input was invaluable, and I'm grateful for her honesty and support. Sometimes, all it takes is someone else's perspective to help us make the tough decisions and find our way.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

stuck between a rock and a hard place

to be faced with two difficult choices, neither of which is desirable

I'm stuck between a rock and a hard place, trying to decide between two job offers.

She's stuck between a rock and a hard place, having to choose between her career and her family.

give it to me straight

to tell someone the truth, without sugarcoating or being diplomatic

I asked my friend to give it to me straight, and she told me I needed to work on my public speaking skills.

He gave it to me straight, saying I wasn't good enough for the team.

Sample Part 3 Answers

Should we trust advice given by strangers when it comes to making decisions? When it comes to making decisions, it's generally not a good idea to trust advice given by strangers. The reason for this is that strangers don't have any personal stake in the outcome of our decisions, and they may not have all the facts. They might be coming from a place of good intentions, but their advice could be based on incomplete or inaccurate information. For example, imagine asking a stranger for investment advice. They might tell you to put all your money into a particular stock, but they don't know your financial situation, your risk tolerance, or your long-term goals. Their advice could end up costing you a lot of money. It's always best to seek advice from people who know us and our situation well, like friends, family, or professionals who have a vested interest in our well-being.

Who are more likely to make bad decisions, men or women? Research suggests that men are more likely to make bad decisions than women, especially when it comes to risk-taking. This is because men are often socialized to be more aggressive and competitive, which can lead them to take unnecessary risks. For instance, men are more likely to engage in reckless behavior like drunk driving or street racing, which can have devastating consequences. On the other hand, women tend to be more cautious and risk-averse, which can help them avoid making bad decisions. However, it's essential to remember that these are general trends and not absolute rules. Both men and women are capable of making good and bad decisions, and individual personalities and circumstances play a much bigger role than gender.

Who could be helpful when you’re making a decision? When making a decision, it's often helpful to seek advice from people who have experience and expertise in the relevant area. For example, if you're deciding whether to buy a house, it would be wise to consult with a real estate agent or a financial advisor. They can provide you with valuable insights and help you weigh the pros and cons. Additionally, talking to someone who has gone through a similar experience can be incredibly helpful. They can share their own experiences, offer practical advice, and provide emotional support. For instance, if you're considering a career change, speaking with someone who has made a similar transition can give you a realistic idea of what to expect and help you make a more informed decision.

Do you think it’s a good idea to listen to others’ advice when making a decision? While it's essential to consider others' opinions and advice when making a decision, it's equally important to remember that ultimately, the decision is yours to make. Listening to others' advice can be helpful in identifying potential pitfalls and exploring different perspectives, but it's crucial to evaluate the advice critically and consider the motivations behind it. Sometimes, people may offer advice based on their own biases or agendas, rather than what's best for you. It's also important to trust your own instincts and judgment. If you're unsure about a decision, it's better to take your time and weigh your options carefully rather than rushing into something that doesn't feel right. Remember, it's your life, and you have to live with the consequences of your decisions.

When young people make a decision, should they listen to the advice of others? When young people make a decision, it's generally a good idea for them to listen to the advice of others, especially from people they trust and respect, like parents, teachers, or mentors. Young people often lack life experience and may not have the necessary skills to evaluate information critically. Listening to advice from others can help them avoid making mistakes and learn from others' experiences. However, it's also essential for young people to develop their critical thinking skills and learn to make their own decisions. As they grow and mature, they should be encouraged to take ownership of their decisions and develop their own problem-solving abilities. A balanced approach that combines seeking advice with developing independence is usually the best way forward.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

take someone's advice with a grain of salt

to be cautious and not completely trust someone's advice

I took my friend's advice to invest in the stock market with a grain of salt, and it's a good thing I did, because the market crashed soon after.