Cue Card

Describe an interesting animal

You should say:

• What it looks like
• When you found out about it for the first time
• Where it lives
• And why it is interesting

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. Have you seen any TV programs about animals?
2. What should we do to protect endangered animals?
3. Do you support doing experiments on animals?
4. Why do some people refuse to eat animals?
5. What happens when some species become extinct?

Sample Cue Card Answer

You ever heard of the axolotl? It's like an alien from Mexico. I mean, this thing is a type of salamander that never grows up. It keeps its gills and remains aquatic its whole life. It's like it's stuck in some kind of amphibian puberty. But what's wild is that it can regrow its limbs, eyes, and parts of its brain. It's like it has a built-in repair kit. Scientists are actually studying it to see if they can apply that regenerative magic to humans. Can you imagine being able to regrow a lost limb? It's like something out of a sci-fi movie.

But here's the thing - axolotls are also super cute. They have this feathery gill thing going on, and their smile is just... have you seen an axolotl smile? It's like they're plotting something. Anyway, they're also critically endangered, so we should probably try to save them. I mean, who wouldn't want to save a face like that?

So yeah, axolotls are pretty interesting. They're like the ultimate symbol of adaptability. I mean, they can survive out of water for a bit, but they're also super sensitive to pollution. It's like they're the canary in the coal mine for the health of our planet. We should probably listen to what they're trying to tell us.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

stuck in some kind of amphibian puberty

a humorous way of describing the axolotl's unique life cycle

The axolotl is stuck in some kind of amphibian puberty, never growing up and remaining aquatic its whole life.

Sample Part 3 Answers

Have you seen any TV programs about animals? I recently watched a documentary about octopuses, and it was absolutely fascinating. The show highlighted their intelligence, problem-solving abilities, and unique behavior. What struck me most was their ability to change color and texture to blend in with their surroundings. The way they can transform from a dull brown to a vibrant red in a split second is just incredible. The documentary also showed how octopuses have been observed using tools, like collecting and using shells to build shelters. It was amazing to see how these creatures, which are often misunderstood, are actually highly intelligent and resourceful.

What should we do to protect endangered animals? I think one of the most important things we can do to protect endangered animals is to support conservation efforts. This can be as simple as donating to reputable organizations or spreading awareness about the issue on social media. However, I believe it's also crucial to address the root causes of the problem, such as habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change. For instance, reducing our carbon footprint, using eco-friendly products, and supporting sustainable practices can all contribute to a healthier environment for endangered species. By making conscious choices in our daily lives, we can all play a role in protecting these incredible creatures.

Do you support doing experiments on animals? While I understand the importance of scientific research and the potential benefits it can bring, I have mixed feelings about experimenting on animals. On one hand, I believe that some experiments, such as those focused on finding cures for diseases, can be justified if they are conducted humanely and with minimal harm to the animals. However, I strongly oppose experiments that involve unnecessary suffering or harm, such as testing cosmetics or cleaning products. I think it's essential to explore alternative methods, like computer simulations or human clinical trials, to minimize animal testing. Ultimately, I believe that we should prioritize animal welfare and strive to find more humane and innovative ways to advance scientific knowledge.

Why do some people refuse to eat animals? I've always been intrigued by the reasons behind people's choices to adopt a plant-based diet. From what I've learned, many individuals choose to abstain from eating animals due to concerns about animal welfare and the ethics of factory farming. They argue that the treatment of animals in the meat industry is often inhumane and unsustainable. Additionally, some people believe that a plant-based diet is better for their health and the environment. I've also met people who follow a vegan lifestyle for spiritual or cultural reasons. Whatever the motivation, I think it's essential to respect people's choices and acknowledge the complexity of this issue. By having open and informed discussions, we can work towards creating a more compassionate and sustainable food system.

What happens when some species become extinct? When a species becomes extinct, it's not just the loss of that particular creature that's significant – it's also the ripple effect it has on the entire ecosystem. For example, when a key pollinator like a bee species goes extinct, it can have a devastating impact on plant reproduction and, in turn, affect the entire food chain. The loss of a species can also lead to a decline in biodiversity, making ecosystems more vulnerable to disease and climate change. Furthermore, extinct species often hold unique genetic information that could have been used to develop new medicines or technologies. By losing these species, we're not only losing a part of our natural heritage, but also potential solutions to some of humanity's most pressing challenges.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

ripple effect

a series of events that are triggered by a single event or action

The company's bankruptcy had a ripple effect on the entire industry.

The loss of a species can have a ripple effect on the ecosystem.