Cue Card

Describe an occasion when you wasted your time

You should say:

• When it was
• Where you were
• What you did
• And explain why you think it was a waste of time.

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. How can we avoid wasting time?
2. Is time management important?
3. Should parents help their children manage their time?
4. Do you think relaxing is a waste of time?

Sample Cue Card Answer

I'll never forget the summer I spent 3 months playing video games for 12 hours a day. I had just graduated from college and was waiting to start my first job. I thought I had plenty of time to kill before I started working, so I indulged in my favorite hobby. I told myself I was just taking a well-deserved break, but deep down, I knew I was procrastinating. I was afraid of the unknown, and the comfort of my gaming console was a safe haven. I spent hours exploring virtual worlds, completing quests, and leveling up my characters. My friends and family would often ask me to hang out, but I would decline, citing that I was 'almost done' with my current gaming session. I was so caught up in my virtual world that I neglected my relationships, my health, and my future. I wasted 3 months of my life, and when I finally started working, I felt unprepared and struggled to adjust to the 9-to-5 life. Looking back, I realize that I was using gaming as a coping mechanism for my anxiety and fear of the unknown. I've since learned to find healthier ways to manage my stress and anxiety, and I've made a conscious effort to prioritize my time and focus on what's truly important. I've also learned to be kinder to myself when I make mistakes and to view failures as opportunities for growth.

I've come to realize that wasting time is not just about the hours spent, but also about the opportunities missed. During those 3 months, I could have been learning a new skill, volunteering, or even just spending quality time with loved ones. Instead, I chose to escape into a virtual world. It's a hard lesson to learn, but one that has made me more mindful of how I spend my time. I've started setting goals and priorities, and I've learned to say no to things that don't align with my values. I've also learned to be more present in the moment and to appreciate the beauty of simplicity. I've come to realize that time is a precious resource, and it's up to me to use it wisely.

I've also learned that it's okay to make mistakes and that it's never too late to change. I've started taking small steps towards a more balanced life, and it's been a game-changer. I've started small, setting aside dedicated time for gaming and making sure I'm not neglecting my responsibilities. I've also started exploring new hobbies and interests, and I've been surprised by how much joy I can find in simple things like reading, hiking, or cooking. I've learned to appreciate the little things and to find happiness in the present moment. I've come to realize that life is too short to waste time, and I'm committed to making the most of every moment.

In conclusion, I've learned that wasting time is a choice, and it's up to me to make better choices. I've learned to prioritize my time, to be kinder to myself, and to appreciate the beauty of simplicity. I've come to realize that time is a precious resource, and it's up to me to use it wisely. I hope that my story can serve as a reminder to all of you to be mindful of how you spend your time and to make the most of every moment.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

to work late into the night, often to meet a deadline

I've been burning the midnight oil all week to finish this project on time.

a state of mind where one puts off tasks or decisions

I've been at the procrastination station all day, I need to get back on track.

time is a valuable resource that should be used wisely

I've learned that time is money, and I need to prioritize my tasks accordingly.

Sample Part 3 Answers

How can we avoid wasting time? One of the most effective ways to avoid wasting time is to set clear goals and priorities. When you know what needs to be done and what's most important, you can focus on those tasks and avoid getting sidetracked by non-essential activities. For example, I like to start my day by making a to-do list and then ranking each task by priority. This helps me stay on track and avoid wasting time on things that aren't crucial. By doing this, I can make the most of my time and achieve my goals more efficiently.

Is time management important? Time management is absolutely crucial in today's fast-paced world. With so many demands on our time, it's easy to get overwhelmed and lose focus. But when you manage your time effectively, you can achieve a better work-life balance, reduce stress, and increase productivity. For instance, I used to struggle with procrastination, but once I started using a planner and setting deadlines for myself, I was able to stay on top of my work and even have time for hobbies and relaxation. Good time management is a skill that can be learned and developed over time, and it's essential for achieving success in all areas of life.

Should parents help their children manage their time? As a parent, it's essential to teach children the importance of time management from a young age. By helping them develop good time management skills, you can set them up for success in school and beyond. For example, my parents used to help me create a schedule for my homework and chores when I was a kid, and that taught me the value of prioritizing tasks and sticking to a routine. Now, as a grown-up, I appreciate the importance of time management and make sure to pass on those skills to the next generation. By guiding children in developing good time management habits, parents can help them become more independent, responsible, and confident individuals.

Do you think relaxing is a waste of time? Relaxation is not a waste of time; in fact, it's essential for our well-being and productivity. When we take time to unwind and recharge, we can come back to our tasks with renewed energy and focus. For instance, I like to take a short walk during my lunch break to clear my mind and refresh my perspective. This helps me tackle the rest of my workday with more clarity and efficiency. By prioritizing relaxation and self-care, we can actually become more productive and effective in the long run, rather than wasting time.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

on track

to be making progress or doing something correctly

I'm on track to meet my deadline.

She's on track to finish her degree next year.