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IELTSTM CUE CARD

Describe a City That You Think is Very Interesting: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

Updated on Sep 11, 2024, 11:19

Overview

In the IELTS Speaking test, a cue card is a prompt that requires you to talk about a specific topic for one to two minutes. It helps assess your ability to organise your thoughts and speak coherently under time constraints. Cue cards are a key part of the Speaking section, which evaluates your spoken English skills.

 

The topic “Describe a City That You Think is Very Interesting” invites you to share your thoughts on a city that fascinates you. You might discuss its unique features, cultural attractions, or personal experiences related to the city. On this page, you'll find sample answers and tips to help you prepare effectively for this cue card topic.

 

Cue Card/Topic: Describe a City That You Think is Very Interesting

You should say

  • Where is it?
  • What is it famous for?
  • How did you know this city?
  • And explain why you think it is very interesting..
Sample Answer 1

Introduction (Covers: Where it is?):

 

  • I’d like to talk about Kyoto, a city in Japan. It’s located in the Kansai region on the island of Honshu.
  • Kyoto is well-known for its rich history and stunning temples. It was the capital of Japan for over a thousand years.
  • The city is situated in a picturesque valley, surrounded by lush mountains, which adds to its charm.

 

Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest (Covers: What it is famous for?):

 

  • Kyoto is famous for its traditional tea houses and beautiful gardens. The Kinkaku-ji, or Golden Pavilion, is a prime example of its architectural beauty.
  • The city is also renowned for its annual festivals, like the Gion Matsuri, which showcases traditional Japanese culture and performances.
  • I find Kyoto fascinating because of its seamless blend of ancient traditions with modern life. Walking through its streets feels like stepping back in time.

 

Key Highlights (Covers: How did you knew this city?):

 

  • I first learned about Kyoto through travel documentaries that highlighted its historical sites and cultural significance.
  • During a visit to Japan, I had the chance to explore Kyoto’s famous shrines and participate in a traditional tea ceremony.
  • I was particularly drawn to Kyoto’s historical narratives and its preservation of traditional crafts and festivals.

 

Conclusion (Covers: And explain why you think it is very interesting):

 

  • Kyoto’s unique combination of historical heritage and cultural richness makes it incredibly interesting to me.
  • The city offers a serene escape from the bustling modern world with its ancient temples and tranquil gardens.
  • I’ve gained a deep appreciation for Japanese history and culture through Kyoto, which has inspired me to explore more historical cities around the world.
Sample Answer 2

Introduction (Covers: Where it is?):

 

  • I'd like to describe Barcelona, a vibrant city located on the northeastern coast of Spain, along the Mediterranean Sea.
  • It is the capital of Catalonia, known for its unique blend of modernist and historical architecture.
  • Nestled between the sea and rolling hills, Barcelona is renowned for its lively atmosphere and beautiful coastal scenery.

 

Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest (Covers: What it is famous for?):

 

  • Barcelona is famous for its stunning buildings designed by Antoni Gaudí, such as the Sagrada Família and Park Güell. These sites are iconic and showcase the city's artistic flair.
  • The city is also known for its bustling markets like La Boqueria, and its vibrant street life along Las Ramblas.
  • I find Barcelona captivating because of its unique cultural blend, from its historic Gothic Quarter to its modern beachside promenades.

 

Key Highlights (Covers: How you knew this city?):

 

  • I first discovered Barcelona through travel blogs and social media posts that highlighted its architectural marvels and lively culture.
  • On a trip to Spain, I visited Barcelona and was mesmerised by the intricate designs of Gaudí’s buildings and the energetic vibe of its streets.
  • The city's rich history and the passion of its people left a lasting impression on me, making it a city I constantly think about.

 

Conclusion (Covers: And explain why you think it is very interesting):

 

  • Barcelona’s combination of artistic heritage and vibrant street culture makes it an incredibly interesting city.
  • The blend of historic landmarks and modern attractions offers a unique experience that stands out from other cities.
  • My visit to Barcelona inspired me to learn more about architectural design and Spanish culture, deepening my appreciation for diverse global experiences.
Sample Answer 3

Introduction (Covers: Where it is?):

 

  • I’d like to talk about Vancouver, a city located on the west coast of Canada, in the province of British Columbia.
  • It’s situated between the Pacific Ocean and the Coast Mountain Range, offering breathtaking natural landscapes and a mild climate.
  • Vancouver’s position as a coastal city makes it a significant hub for both natural beauty and urban life.

 

Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest (Covers: What it is famous for?):

 

  • Vancouver is renowned for its stunning waterfronts and outdoor recreational activities, such as hiking in Stanley Park and skiing in nearby Whistler.
  • The city is also famous for its diverse culinary scene and multicultural population, reflected in its vibrant neighbourhoods and restaurants.
  • I find Vancouver particularly interesting because it seamlessly blends urban sophistication with access to incredible natural scenery.

 

Key Highlights (Covers: How you knew this city?):

 

  • I first heard about Vancouver from a friend who had visited and spoke highly of its natural beauty and diverse culture.
  • During a recent holiday to Canada, I explored the city’s famous spots, like Granville Island and the Capilano Suspension Bridge, which further piqued my interest.
  • The city’s reputation as a green city with numerous parks and eco-friendly initiatives intrigued me, making it a memorable part of my trip.

 

Conclusion (Covers: And explain why you think it is very interesting):

 

  • Vancouver’s unique combination of urban amenities and natural beauty makes it a city that stands out.
  • The accessibility to both mountain and ocean activities provides a dynamic lifestyle that appeals to many people.
  • My experiences in Vancouver have left me inspired by its balance of modern living and nature, and it has motivated me to explore more cities with similar characteristics.

 

Also Read:

 

Knowing how to effectively answer cue card topics can significantly boost your performance in the IELTS Speaking test. Understanding the structure and expectations helps you organise your thoughts quickly and speak confidently within the time limit. For the cue card topic "Describe a City That You Think is Very Interesting," this approach will ensure you cover all key aspects of the topic clearly and concisely.

 

When the cue card section begins, the examiner will hand you a card with the topic and give you a minute to prepare. You'll then need to speak for one to two minutes on the topic.

 

To answer these cue cards effectively, break your response into small, manageable pieces:

 

Introduction (Covers: Where it is?): 

 

  • Start with a brief overview of the city you find interesting.
  • Mention why you chose this city (e.g., personal connection, unique features).
  • Set the stage for the rest of your talk by giving a hint about what you'll cover.

 

Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest (Covers: What it is famous for?):

 

  • Share your personal experience or opinion about the city.
  • Highlight aspects that make the city special to you (e.g., cultural experiences, landmarks).
  • Provide specific examples or anecdotes to support your points.

 

Key Highlights (Covers: How did you knew this city?): 

 

  • Focus on 2-3 key highlights of the city (e.g., famous places, local customs).
  • Explain why these highlights are significant or memorable.
  • Link these highlights back to your overall interest in the city.

 

Conclusion (Covers: And explain why you think it is very interesting): 

 

  • Summarise your main points briefly.
  • Restate why you find the city interesting.
  • End with a final thought or reflection on the city’s impact on you.

 

By following this structure, you’ll be able to deliver a well-rounded and engaging response within the time limit.

Follow-Up Questions

In the follow-up questions or Part 3 of the IELTS Speaking test, you’ll have the opportunity to discuss your cue card topic in greater depth. This part of the interview lasts for 4-5 minutes and involves a two-way discussion with the examiner. You will be asked to provide more detailed opinions and ideas related to the topic you spoke about in Part 2. It’s important to answer these questions thoughtfully and expand on your responses from the cue card section.

 

Q1. Why do some people like to visit historical places?

Answer 1: Many people are drawn to historical places because they offer a tangible connection to the past. Visiting these sites can provide insights into different cultures and historical events, making history come alive in a way that books or documentaries cannot. The sense of walking through history can be both educational and inspiring.

 

Answer 2: People often visit historical places to experience and appreciate the architectural beauty and heritage of different eras. These sites often hold significant cultural value and can offer a deeper understanding of how societies evolved over time. For many, it’s a way to honour and preserve the legacy of past generations.

Q2. Why do people go to modern cities?

Answer 1: Modern cities attract visitors with their dynamic lifestyle, cutting-edge architecture, and diverse cultural experiences. These cities often offer a wide range of entertainment options, shopping, and dining experiences that appeal to those looking for a cosmopolitan lifestyle. The blend of innovation and culture can be very appealing.

 

Answer 2: People visit modern cities to experience the conveniences and advancements of contemporary life. The high standard of living, modern infrastructure, and opportunities for networking or business make these cities attractive. Additionally, modern cities often serve as hubs for global culture and innovation, drawing those interested in staying at the forefront of trends.

Q3. What are the issues raised by the preservation of historic cities?

Answer 1: Preserving historic cities can be challenging due to the high costs involved in maintaining and restoring old buildings. Balancing modern development with preservation efforts can also lead to conflicts, as new infrastructure might not align with historical aesthetics. Additionally, there is often a risk of losing authentic local character due to commercialisation.

 

Answer 2: One major issue with preserving historic cities is the potential conflict between conservation and urbanisation. As cities grow, integrating new developments while maintaining historical integrity can be difficult. Furthermore, ongoing maintenance and restoration work can be expensive and require substantial financial investment, which might strain local resources.

Q4. Do you think having too many tourists is a positive thing for historical attractions?

Answer 1: While tourism can boost local economies and raise awareness about historical sites, an excessive number of tourists can have negative impacts. Overcrowding can lead to wear and tear on the attractions, diminishing the experience for visitors and potentially harming the preservation efforts. It’s important to manage tourism to balance economic benefits with conservation needs.

 

Answer 2: Having too many tourists can be a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it can bring significant economic benefits to local communities and encourage the upkeep of historical sites. On the other hand, overcrowding can detract from the enjoyment of the site and pose risks to its preservation, making it essential to implement effective visitor management strategies.

FAQs

Q. Which part is the most important in IELTS speaking?

Ans. Each part of the IELTS Speaking test is crucial, but Part 2, where you discuss the cue card topic, is often viewed as the most significant. This section tests your ability to speak at length on a subject, demonstrating your fluency, coherence, and ability to structure your thoughts. It’s a key moment to show how effectively you can express your ideas clearly and in an organised manner.

Q. What is the lowest score in IELTS speaking?

Ans. The lowest score you can receive in the IELTS Speaking test is a Band 1. This score indicates that the candidate has virtually no ability to communicate in English, apart from knowing a few isolated words. A Band 1 is extremely rare, as most individuals taking the test have at least a basic understanding and ability to converse in English.

Q. Can I change the topic for speaking in IELTS?

Ans. No, you cannot change the topic in the IELTS Speaking test. The examiner assigns a specific cue card topic, and you are required to speak on that topic for up to two minutes. However, the topics are designed to be broad, allowing you some flexibility in how you approach and discuss the subject matter, ensuring you can tailor your response to your experiences or knowledge.

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