Cue Card

Describe something that you received for free

You should say:

• What it was
• Why it was free
• Who gave it to you
• And explain how you felt about it.

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. Do you think people should pay for higher education? Why?
2. What are the pros and cons of free education?
3. What kinds of free gifts do companies usually give their customers?
4. Why do people like to receive free gifts from companies?

Sample Cue Card Answer

I'll never forget the day I received a beautiful, hand-painted guitar from a stranger. I was at a music festival, playing my old, beat-up instrument, when a woman approached me. She introduced herself as a local artist and told me she'd been watching me play for hours. She said my passion for music was infectious, and she wanted to gift me something that would inspire me to keep creating. The next thing I knew, she was handing me this stunning guitar, adorned with vibrant colors and patterns. I was speechless.

At first, I felt guilty accepting such a generous gift from someone I'd just met. But she just smiled and said, 'Pay it forward, not back.' Those four words have stuck with me ever since. It's amazing how something given to me for free has had such a profound impact on my life. That guitar has been my trusted companion for countless performances, and it's a constant reminder that kindness can come from unexpected places.

What I love most about that guitar is the story behind it. The woman who gave it to me had received it from someone else, who had received it from someone else before that. It's a symbol of the ripple effect of kindness, and how one person's generosity can inspire a chain reaction of good deeds. I've tried to pay it forward in my own way, whether it's through music or other acts of kindness. It's amazing how something given to me for free has become a catalyst for so much more.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

Pay it forward, not back

To respond to a kindness or generosity by doing something kind for someone else, rather than trying to repay the original person.

She paid it forward by buying coffee for the person behind her in line.

He paid it forward by volunteering at a local charity after receiving help from a stranger.

Sample Part 3 Answers

Do you think people should pay for higher education? Why? Honestly, I think it's a complex issue. On one hand, higher education can be incredibly valuable, and people who receive it should be willing to invest in themselves. However, I also believe that education is a fundamental right, and everyone should have access to it, regardless of their financial situation. If people have to pay for higher education, it can create a huge barrier for those who can't afford it, and that's not fair. I think a more equitable solution would be to make higher education free or low-cost, so that everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed.

What are the pros and cons of free education? One of the biggest pros of free education is that it levels the playing field. When education is free, people from all walks of life can access it, regardless of their financial situation. This can lead to a more diverse and inclusive society, where everyone has an equal chance to succeed. On the other hand, one of the cons of free education is that it can be expensive for governments to implement and maintain. Additionally, some people might not take their education as seriously if they're not invested financially. However, I think the benefits of free education far outweigh the drawbacks.

What kinds of free gifts do companies usually give their customers? Companies often give their customers free gifts as a way to show appreciation and build brand loyalty. One common type of free gift is a discount or a coupon. For example, a coffee shop might offer a free drink to customers who sign up for their rewards program. Another type of free gift is a sample product or service. For instance, a skincare company might give away free samples of their new moisturizer to customers who attend a promotional event. Companies might also offer free gifts as part of a contest or sweepstakes, like a free trip or a prize package.

Why do people like to receive free gifts from companies? I think people love receiving free gifts from companies because it makes them feel valued and appreciated. When a company gives you something for free, it's like they're saying, 'Hey, we care about you, and we want to show our appreciation.' It's a way for companies to build a positive relationship with their customers and create a sense of loyalty. Plus, let's be real, who doesn't love getting something for free? It's a great feeling, and it can make you more likely to choose that company over a competitor in the future.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

levels the playing field

to create a situation where everyone has an equal chance to succeed

Free education levels the playing field, so everyone can access it regardless of their financial situation.