Cue Card

Describe an important journey that was delayed

You should say:

• When it was
• Why it was important
• Why it was delayed
• And explain how you felt about it.

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. Would people still drive a car if public transportation was free?
2. How can public transportation in rural areas be developed?
3. What methods of transportation do people usually use when they travel?
4. In what ways can traffic in a city be improved?

Sample Cue Card Answer

So, I was supposed to start college in the fall, but my family's financial situation wasn't exactly stable at the time. My parents were going through a tough time, and we just couldn't afford the tuition. I had to put my dreams on hold and work a few jobs to help make ends meet. It was tough, but I knew it was temporary. I mean, I had to put food on the table, you feel me? But it was hard not to feel like I was falling behind my friends who were all off at college, living their best lives. I felt like I was stuck in limbo, just waiting for the day when I could finally pursue my own dreams.

But the delay ended up being a blessing in disguise. I learned so much about myself during that time. I learned how to be resourceful, how to budget, and how to prioritize. And when I finally did start college a year later, I was so much more focused and driven. I knew exactly what I wanted to achieve, and I was determined to make the most of my time. It wasn't easy, but it was worth it in the end.

Looking back, I realize that the delay was actually a crucial part of my journey. It taught me patience, perseverance, and the importance of hard work. And it's funny, because now I'm actually grateful for that delay. It made me the person I am today, and I wouldn't change a thing.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

put my dreams on hold

to delay or postpone something, often because of a problem or difficulty

I had to put my dreams on hold to help my family.

The project was put on hold due to lack of funding.

Sample Part 3 Answers

Would people still drive a car if public transportation was free? I think it's safe to say that having free public transportation would definitely change the way people get around, but it wouldn't necessarily mean the end of driving cars altogether. For one, there's the issue of convenience - a lot of people rely on their cars for daily commutes, running errands, or transporting family members, and public transportation might not always be able to accommodate those needs. Plus, there's the added benefit of having a car for road trips or spontaneous adventures. However, if public transportation was free, I think we'd see a significant shift in people using it for their daily commutes, especially in cities where traffic is notoriously bad. It'd be a huge incentive for people to leave their cars behind and reduce congestion on the roads.

How can public transportation in rural areas be developed? Developing public transportation in rural areas is a complex issue, but one potential solution is to focus on community-driven initiatives. For example, some rural towns have implemented volunteer driver programs, where locals can sign up to drive their neighbors to appointments, grocery shopping, or other essential services. This not only provides a vital service but also helps build a sense of community. Another approach could be to invest in more flexible, on-demand transportation services, like ride-hailing or microtransit, which can be more efficient and cost-effective in areas with lower population density. Additionally, partnering with local businesses and organizations to provide shuttle services or subsidized transportation options could also help fill the gap in rural areas.

What methods of transportation do people usually use when they travel? When people travel, the method of transportation they choose often depends on the distance, destination, and personal preference. For shorter trips, like weekend getaways or visiting family, many people opt for driving or taking the train. However, for longer trips, especially internationally, flying is often the preferred mode of transportation. That being said, there's been a growing trend towards more sustainable and experiential travel, with people opting for buses, trains, or even cycling tours to explore new places. And of course, with the rise of ride-hailing services, many people are using apps like Uber or Lyft to get around cities when they travel. Ultimately, the choice of transportation method often comes down to convenience, cost, and the type of experience you're looking for.

In what ways can traffic in a city be improved? Improving traffic in a city is a multifaceted challenge, but one key strategy is to optimize traffic flow through smart infrastructure. This can include implementing intelligent traffic signals that adjust their timing based on real-time traffic conditions, or using data analytics to identify and address bottlenecks. Another approach is to encourage alternative modes of transportation, such as investing in bike lanes, pedestrianized zones, or promoting car-sharing services. Additionally, cities can also look at implementing congestion pricing, where drivers are charged a fee to enter certain areas during peak hours, which can help reduce traffic volume and encourage more efficient travel patterns. By taking a holistic approach that incorporates technology, infrastructure, and policy changes, cities can work towards reducing congestion and improving the overall commuting experience.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

on-demand transportation

Transportation services that can be requested and provided as needed, rather than following a fixed schedule.

Ride-hailing services like Uber or Lyft are examples of on-demand transportation.

Some cities offer on-demand bus services that allow passengers to request pickups and drop-offs using a mobile app.