Cue Card

Describe someone or something that made a lot of noise

You should say:

• Who or what made the noise
• What the noise was like
• What you did when you heard the noise
• And explain how you felt about it.

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. Where are some noisy places?
2. What can happen if someone listens to very loud music when they are running or hiking?
3. What can be done to reduce traffic noise?
4. Do you think the world will be a noisier place in the future?

Sample Cue Card Answer

I'm talking about my neighbor, Mr. Jenkins. The man was a force of nature, a human tornado that left a trail of chaos in his wake. His noise was a living, breathing entity that seeped into every pore of my being, making it impossible to escape. It started at 6 am sharp, with the sound of his lawnmower roaring to life, shaking the very foundations of my apartment building. I'm not talking about a gentle hum, I'm talking about a deafening roar that could wake up the dead. And it wasn't just the lawnmower, oh no. It was the constant banging on the walls, the yelling at the TV during sports games, the off-key singing in the shower. It was like he had a personal vendetta against silence.

But what really took the cake was his love of fireworks. I'm not talking about your run-of-the-mill sparklers and roman candles, I'm talking about full-on, professional-grade fireworks that lit up the night sky and rattled the windows. It was like living next to a war zone. And the worst part? He'd set them off at random times, 2 am, 4 am, whenever the mood struck him. I'd be lying in bed, trying to sleep, and suddenly, BOOM! The room would shake and I'd be wide awake, my heart racing.

Despite the chaos he created, I have to admit, Mr. Jenkins was a lovable guy. He'd invite me over for BBQs and regale me with stories of his adventures. He was a true original, a one-of-a-kind character that you'd never forget. And even though his noise drove me crazy, it was a small price to pay for the entertainment he provided. So, if you ever meet Mr. Jenkins, just remember, he's a force to be reckoned with, and earplugs are a must.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

a force of nature

someone or something that is powerful and uncontrollable

The hurricane was a force of nature that destroyed the town.

My little brother is a force of nature on the soccer field.

off-key

singing or playing music that is not in tune

The singer's off-key performance was painful to listen to.

My friend's off-key rendition of the national anthem was hilarious.

Sample Part 3 Answers

Where are some noisy places? You can find noisy places in various settings, but some of the most obvious ones are construction sites, airports, and major highways. For instance, construction sites are filled with the constant sound of drilling, hammering, and heavy machinery moving around. It's not uncommon to see workers wearing earplugs or earmuffs to protect their hearing from the loud noises. Similarly, airports are bustling with the sound of planes taking off and landing, and the constant announcements over the intercom system. And let's not forget about major highways, where the sound of cars, trucks, and sirens can be overwhelming.

What can happen if someone listens to very loud music when they are running or hiking? Listening to very loud music while running or hiking can be detrimental to one's hearing and safety. When you're out in nature, it's essential to be aware of your surroundings, including potential hazards like wildlife, inclement weather, or other people. But when you're blasting music in your ears, you may not be able to hear these warning signs, which can put you at risk. Furthermore, loud music can also lead to hearing loss or tinnitus, a condition characterized by a constant ringing in the ears. It's crucial to find a balance between enjoying music and being mindful of your environment and hearing health.

What can be done to reduce traffic noise? Reducing traffic noise requires a multi-faceted approach that involves both short-term and long-term solutions. One immediate solution is to implement noise-reducing materials in urban planning, such as sound barriers or acoustic fencing along highways. Additionally, promoting alternative modes of transportation like public transport, cycling, or walking can significantly decrease the number of cars on the road, thereby reducing noise pollution. In the long run, investing in electric or hybrid vehicles can also help minimize traffic noise. Moreover, cities can adopt smart traffic management systems that optimize traffic flow and reduce congestion, which in turn can lead to a decrease in noise levels.

Do you think the world will be a noisier place in the future? Unfortunately, it's likely that the world will become a noisier place in the future. As the global population continues to grow, urbanization increases, and technology advances, noise pollution is likely to rise. For instance, the proliferation of drones, increased air traffic, and growing construction projects will all contribute to higher noise levels. Moreover, the rise of megacities and urban sprawl will lead to more traffic congestion, construction, and industrial activity, all of which generate significant amounts of noise. However, it's worth noting that there are efforts underway to develop noise-reducing technologies and implement noise regulations, which could help mitigate the impact of noise pollution in the future.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

noise pollution

the presence of excessive or unwanted sounds in the environment that can harm human health or quality of life

The city's noise pollution is a major concern for residents.

The company is working to reduce noise pollution from its manufacturing plant.