Cue Card

Describe an interesting conversation

You should say:

• Who you spoke with
• Where you were
• What the conversation was about
• And explain why you think it was an interesting conversation.

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. Do people communicate more when they are talking face to face?
2. What do young people have conversations about?
3. Do people talk more or less than they did in the past?
4. Do you think good communication skills are necessary at work?

Sample Cue Card Answer

I had the most fascinating conversation with a stranger on my daily commute the other day. It was one of those moments where you strike up a conversation with someone, and it turns out to be a life-changing discussion. I was on my way to work, lost in my own thoughts, when I noticed an elderly man sitting across from me, staring at me with an intensity that made me feel like he could see right through me. At first, I thought he was just being rude, but then he broke the silence and asked me about my thoughts on artificial intelligence. I was taken aback, but I decided to engage, and what followed was a 20-minute conversation that left me questioning everything I thought I knew about the world.

He told me about his experiences working in the tech industry in the 80s and how he saw the dawn of AI as a revolutionary moment that would change humanity forever. He spoke about the potential benefits and drawbacks, and how we need to be mindful of the consequences of creating machines that can think for themselves. I was amazed by his insights and realized that sometimes the most interesting conversations can come from unexpected places.

As we parted ways, I couldn't help but think about how often we overlook the people around us, assuming they have nothing valuable to say. But this conversation taught me that everyone has a story to tell and that sometimes all it takes is a spark to ignite a fascinating discussion. It's a reminder to stay curious, listen actively, and never underestimate the power of a chance encounter.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

strike up a conversation

Sample Part 3 Answers

Do people communicate more when they are talking face to face? When people are talking face to face, they tend to communicate more effectively because they can pick up on nonverbal cues like body language and facial expressions. These subtle signals can convey just as much information as spoken words, and they help to add context to the conversation. For instance, if someone is telling a story and their eyes light up with excitement, it's clear that they're passionate about the topic. On the other hand, if they're fidgeting with their hands, it might indicate that they're nervous or uncomfortable. By paying attention to these nonverbal cues, people can have a more nuanced and engaging conversation when they're talking face to face.

What do young people have conversations about? Young people today have conversations about a wide range of topics, but one thing that's really interesting is how much they talk about their online lives. Social media has become such a huge part of their daily experience, and it's not uncommon for them to discuss their favorite influencers, viral trends, or online dramas with their friends. But it's not all about screens – they also love to talk about their hobbies, passions, and interests, whether that's music, art, or sports. What's really cool is how they often use these conversations as a way to connect with others who share similar interests and build communities around them.

Do people talk more or less than they did in the past? It's ironic, but despite having more ways to communicate than ever before, people might actually be talking less than they did in the past. With the rise of texting, social media, and email, it's easier to avoid face-to-face conversations or phone calls, which can lead to a sense of isolation. Additionally, the pace of modern life can be overwhelming, leaving people with less time to engage in meaningful conversations. However, when people do talk, they often have more in-depth and meaningful conversations, perhaps because they're more intentional about the time they spend communicating with others.

Do you think good communication skills are necessary at work? Good communication skills are absolutely essential in the workplace. When people can communicate effectively, they can avoid misunderstandings, build trust with their colleagues, and work more efficiently as a team. It's not just about conveying information, but also about being able to listen actively, ask questions, and clarify expectations. In today's fast-paced work environment, clear communication can make all the difference between success and failure. For instance, if a team is working on a project with a tight deadline, good communication can help them stay on track, address any issues that arise, and ultimately deliver a high-quality result.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

pick up on

to notice or understand something, often a subtle signal or cue

She picked up on the hint that he was interested in her.

He picked up on the fact that his friend was upset.