Cue Card

Describe an interesting part of your country

You should say:

• Where it is
• How you found out about it
• What it is famous for
• And why you think it is interesting

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. What’s the difference between people living in the city and people living in the countryside?
2. What’s the difference between big cities and small cities?
3. What’s the difference between the north and south in your country?
4. What makes one country different from another?
5. Do you like living in big cities or small ones?

Sample Cue Card Answer

I'm from the Pacific Northwest, where the air is crisp, the coffee is strong, and the moss is so thick it'll swallow your car whole if you park it in one spot for too long. But there's one place that's a real hidden gem – the Hoh Rainforest on the Olympic Peninsula. It's like stepping into a different world. The moment you enter, the sounds of the highway fade away, and all you're left with is the gentle hum of the rain and the soft rustle of leaves. It's like nature's own cathedral, with towering spruce and fir trees that'll make you feel like an ant. And the best part? It's one of the quietest places on earth – literally. Scientists have measured the sound levels, and it's one of the lowest on the planet.

I took a solo hike there last year, and it was like a spiritual experience. The trail winds through the forest, and every step feels like a journey through a different era. The trees get taller and older, the moss gets thicker, and the air gets cooler. It's like walking through a tunnel of green, with dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy above. I felt like I was walking on clouds, the moss was so soft underfoot. And then, suddenly, the trail opens up, and you're standing in front of the Hoh River, which is this stunning turquoise color. It's like nothing I've ever seen before – like someone poured a bucket of paint into the water.

What I love about the Hoh is that it's not just a pretty face – it's also a working forest. The Quileute tribe has lived there for centuries, and they've developed this incredible relationship with the land. They harvest the cedar trees sustainably, using techniques that've been passed down through generations. It's a real model for how we can live in harmony with nature, rather than trying to control it. And it's not just the Quileute – the whole region is full of people who are passionate about preserving the land. It's a real community effort.

So if you ever find yourself in the Pacific Northwest, do yourself a favor and take a trip to the Hoh. It's not just a hike – it's an experience. And who knows, you might just find yourself falling in love with the moss, just like I did.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

hidden gem

a place or thing that is not well-known but is very good or special

The Hoh Rainforest is a hidden gem on the Olympic Peninsula.

stepping into a different world

entering a place that is very different from the one you were in before

The moment you enter the Hoh Rainforest, it's like stepping into a different world.

on earth

in the world, or in existence

It's one of the quietest places on earth.

dappled sunlight

sunlight that filters through trees or other objects, creating a pattern of light and shade

The trail winds through the forest, with dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy above.

Sample Part 3 Answers

What’s the difference between people living in the city and people living in the countryside? I think one of the biggest differences between people living in the city and those living in the countryside is the pace of life. In the city, everything is fast-paced and there's always something to do, whereas in the countryside, life is much more relaxed and peaceful. I've noticed that people in the city tend to be more focused on their careers and making a living, whereas people in the countryside tend to be more focused on their community and way of life. For example, I have a friend who lives in New York City and she's always on the go, always rushing to get somewhere, whereas my friend who lives in rural Montana has a much more laid-back attitude and spends most of his free time outdoors. I think this difference in pace of life really shapes the way people think and behave, and it's interesting to see how it affects their priorities and values.

What’s the difference between big cities and small cities? I think the main difference between big cities and small cities is the level of diversity and anonymity. In big cities, you're surrounded by people from all walks of life, and you can easily get lost in the crowd. In small cities, everyone knows each other, and there's a much stronger sense of community. For example, I've lived in both New York City and a small town in the Midwest, and the difference is night and day. In the big city, I could go days without seeing anyone I knew, whereas in the small town, I'd run into someone I knew every time I went to the grocery store. I think this difference in scale really affects the way people interact with each other and their surroundings.

What’s the difference between the north and south in your country? I think the main difference between the north and south in the United States is the cultural heritage and history. The north has a much more industrial and urban history, whereas the south has a more rural and agricultural history. This has shaped the way people live, work, and interact with each other in these regions. For example, I've noticed that people in the north tend to be more direct and to-the-point in their communication, whereas people in the south tend to be more polite and hospitable. I think this difference in cultural heritage really affects the way people approach everyday life and interact with strangers.

What makes one country different from another? I think what makes one country different from another is the unique combination of history, culture, and geography. Each country has its own distinct character that's shaped by its past, its people, and its environment. For example, Japan is known for its cutting-edge technology and vibrant cities, whereas Brazil is known for its beautiful beaches and Carnival celebrations. I think this unique blend of factors makes each country special and worth visiting or learning about. It's like each country has its own flavor or personality that sets it apart from others.

Do you like living in big cities or small ones? I think I prefer living in small cities, personally. I like the sense of community and the fact that I can walk or bike everywhere I need to go. In big cities, I feel like I'm just a small fish in a big pond, and it's hard to make connections with people. In small cities, I feel like I can really make a difference and get to know my neighbors. Plus, the pace of life is just more relaxed, and I feel like I can breathe easier. Of course, big cities have their advantages too, but for me, the pros of small cities outweigh the cons.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

night and day

completely different

The difference between the two cities is night and day.

I feel like I'm in a different world, it's night and day from my old life.