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IELTSTM CUE CARD

Describe A Film That Impressed You A Lot: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

Updated on Nov 13, 2024, 05:50

Overview

Are you seeking a platform to practice your speaking skills for the IELTS exam? In that case, you have the right page to practice and increase your chances of scoring well in the speaking section of IELTS. 
 

IELTS Speaking has three parts, which remain the same in both tests(academic & general). The cue card round is filled with simple topics such as personal interests, experiences, environmental and societal issues, and general knowledge. A commonly asked topic is 'Describe a Film that Impresses You A Lot'.
 

In this topic, you will have to discuss a movie you have watched and enjoyed and explain why it significantly impacted you. In the following paragraphs, we will discuss sample answers and follow-up questions and provide tips on effectively answering this cue card question. 

 

Cue Card/Topic:Describe A Film that Impressed You A Lot.

You should say

  • When and where did you watch it?
  • What was the movie about?
  • Why did you choose to watch it?
  • How you felt about it? And explain why it made you think so?
Sample Answer 1 (3 Idiots)

Introduction:
 

  • I remember watching the film 3 Idiots for the first time a few years ago during a movie night with friends at home.
  • Briefly introduce the film's context, genre, director, and notable actors.
  • Explain why you chose to watch this film and your initial expectations.
     

When and where did you watch it?
 

  • It was a relaxed evening on a weekend, and we decided to unwind by watching a Bollywood film together.
  • Provide details about the time and place you watched the film, such as the setting and atmosphere.
     

What was the movie about?
 

  • 3 Idiots is a comedy-drama film that revolves around the lives of three engineering students who form an unlikely friendship at a prestigious Indian university.

 

Why did you choose to watch it?
 

  • I had heard rave reviews about '3 Idiots' from friends and family, who praised its engaging storyline and thought-provoking messages.
  • Explain your motivation for watching this film, such as recommendations, critical acclaim, or personal interest.
     

How you felt about it? And explain why it made you think so? 
 

  • I was thoroughly impressed by '3 Idiots' from start to finish. It entertained me with its humour and lively performances and deeply resonated with me on a personal level.
  • Share your emotional response to the film, highlighting specific aspects that stood out and why they impacted you.
     

Conclusion:
 

  • In conclusion, '3 Idiots' left a lasting impression on me with its blend of comedy, drama, and heartfelt moments. 
  • It made me laugh, cry, and reflect on the pressures of academic success and the pursuit of happiness. ‘
  • I highly recommend this film to anyone seeking an uplifting and thought-provoking cinematic experience.
  • Summarise your overall impression of the film and reiterate why it impressed you, concluding with a recommendation for others to watch it.
Sample Answer 2 (Murder Mystery)

Introduction:

 

  • I watched the film "Murder Mystery" last summer with a group of friends at a local movie theatre. 
  • It was a spontaneous decision to watch the movie, as we were looking for something entertaining to enjoy together. 
  • The film intrigued us with its intriguing title and star-studded cast, including Adam Sandler and Jennifer Aniston. 
  • Little did we know that it would be an incredibly enjoyable and impressive cinematic experience.

 

When and where did you watch it?
 

  • I watched "Murder Mystery" with friends last summer at a local movie theatre. 
  • It was a spontaneous decision to see the film, as we were looking for something entertaining to enjoy together. 
  • The movie theatre provided the perfect setting for a fun-filled evening of suspense and laughter.
     

What was the movie about?
 

  • "Murder Mystery" revolves around a New York City cop, Nick Spitz, played by Adam Sandler, and his wife, Audrey, played by Jennifer Aniston, who embark on a long-awaited European vacation. 
  • However, their plans for relaxation take an unexpected turn when they find themselves entangled in a glamorous murder mystery aboard a luxurious yacht. As they navigate a web of deceit, danger, and intrigue, they must unravel the truth behind the murder before it's too late.

 

Why did you choose to watch it?
 

  • We chose to watch "Murder Mystery" primarily because we were drawn to its intriguing premise and star-studded cast. 
  • The combination of a thrilling murder mystery set against the backdrop of a lavish European vacation seemed like the perfect recipe for an entertaining movie night with friends. 
  • Additionally, we were fans of Adam Sandler and Jennifer Aniston's previous collaborations and were excited to see them team up again on screen.
     

How you felt about it? And explain why it made you think so? 
 

  • "Murder Mystery" exceeded our expectations and left us thoroughly entertained from start to finish. 
  • The film seamlessly blended comedy, suspense, and mystery elements, keeping us on the edge of our seats while delivering plenty of laughs along the way. 
  • Adam Sandler and Jennifer Aniston showcased their comedic chemistry, bringing their characters to life with charm and wit. 
  • The plot twists and turns kept us guessing until the end, and the picturesque European settings added an extra layer of allure to the story.
     

Conclusion:

 

  • "Murder Mystery" greatly impressed me with its captivating storyline, engaging performances, and unexpected twists. 
  • It was a thrilling cinematic ride that left a lasting impression on me, and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a fun movie experience. 
  • Watching "Murder Mystery" with friends was an unforgettable movie night I'll cherish for years.
Sample Answer 3 (Pink)

Introduction:
 

  • I remember watching "Pink" at a local cinema in my hometown when it was released theatrically a few years ago. 
  • Directed by Aniruddha Roy Chowdhury, "Pink" is a thought-provoking Indian courtroom drama that left a lasting impression on me.
     

When and where did you watch it?
 

  • I watched "Pink" with friends on a Saturday evening at a nearby multiplex. 
  • The theatre was excited as we settled into seats, eager to experience the highly acclaimed film.

 

What was the movie about?
 

  • "Pink" revolves around the story of three young women who find themselves embroiled in a legal battle after a night out gone wrong. 
  • The film delves into complex themes of consent, societal prejudices, and the judicial system's treatment of sexual assault survivors.
     

Why did you choose to watch it?
 

  • I watched "Pink" because of its intriguing premise and positive word-of-mouth reviews. 
  • As someone interested in socially relevant cinema, I was drawn to the film's exploration of important issues such as gender discrimination and victim-blaming. 
     

How you felt about it? And explain why it made you think so?
 

  • Watching "Pink" was a deeply impactful experience for me. 
  • The film's powerful narrative, gripping performances, and raw portrayal of reality left me both emotionally moved and intellectually stimulated. 
  • The way "Pink" challenged societal norms and sparked conversations about consent and women's rights made me reflect deeply on the injustices prevalent in our society.
     

Conclusion:
 

  • "Pink" is a film that entertained me and profoundly impacted my consciousness. 
  • Its poignant storytelling and thought-provoking themes resonate with me long after watching it. 
  • "Pink" is a shining example of cinema's ability to illuminate important social issues and provoke meaningful dialogue.

The IELTS Speaking test is a one-on-one interview with a certified IELTS examiner. 

 

Once part 2 begins, you will be handed a cue card and 4 questions related to it. The cue card will look like this:

 

To answer cue card prompts effectively, break them into sections: introduction, key highlights, and conclusion. Provide context in the introduction, add specific examples in key highlights, and summarise your main points in the conclusion.
 

Considering that, here's how we'll break our topic down.

 

Introduction:
 

  •  Start by briefly introducing the film you will discuss, including its title and background information. 
  • To provide context for your experience, mention when and where you've seen the film, such as the date and location. 
  • Explain why you've chosen to see this film, whether or not it was your recommendation at the Film Festival.
     

For Example, “The film that left a lasting impression on me is 'Inception,' directed by Christopher Nolan. I had the opportunity to watch it a few years ago at a local cinema with a group of friends. I was drawn to 'Inception' due to its reputation as a mind-bending thriller with visually stunning effects.”
 

When and where did you watch it?

 

  • You need to provide a description of the circumstances surrounding your viewing of this film, as well as its date, time and place. 
  • If relevant, provide additional information, such as whether you've been watching it alone or with others and any particular significance of the viewing experience.
     

For Example, “I watched 'Inception' on a Saturday evening at my local cinema with friends."
 

What was the movie about?
 

  • Provide an overview of the movie's story, focusing on its major plot lines and central themes. 
  • Make sure you don't give the reader too much information, but make it sufficiently detailed so they can understand what this film is all about.

 

For Example“Inception follows the story of Dom Cobb, a skilled thief who enters the dreams of others to steal their secrets. However, he is tasked with an impossible mission to plant an idea in someone's mind instead of stealing it.”
 

Why did you choose to watch it?
 

  • Explain why you decided to watch this film and what attracted you. 
  • It could include factors like your friends' recommendation, favourable evaluations or an interest in the director or other actors involved.
     

For Example, “I chose to watch 'Inception' because I had heard rave reviews about its mind-bending plot and innovative visual effects. Additionally, I was a fan of Christopher Nolan's previous work and was eager to see his latest film.”

 

How you felt about it? And explain why it made you think so?
 

  • Explain how you feel about the film and why it had such an impact on your life. 
  • Talk about specific elements of the film that appealed to you emotionally, intellectually or creatively.

 

For Example, “After watching 'Inception,' I was completely blown away by its intricate plot, stunning visuals, and thought-provoking themes. The film's exploration of the nature of reality and the power of the mind left me pondering long after the credits rolled."
 

Conclusion:
 

  • Give an overview of the film and explain why it was so interesting. 
  • Please take a moment to reflect on this film's lasting impact and why you would recommend it to someone else.
     

For Example“'Inception' is a film that truly impressed me with its gripping storyline, breathtaking visuals, and profound philosophical themes. It challenged my perceptions of reality and left me captivated from start to finish. I highly recommend this film to anyone looking for an unforgettable cinematic experience.”

Follow-Up Questions

Part 3 of the IELTS speaking section is the two-way discussion round. The examiner will ask you related questions to the topic given to you in individual long-turn tasks. 

 

In this section, you will discuss the topic in general, showcasing to the examiner that you can justify your opinions and your ability to discuss the topic in depth. The discussion round's duration, part 3, will be 4-5 mins. 

Q1. What specific aspects of the film impressed you the most?

Answer 1: The captivating storyline: The intricate plot kept me engaged from start to finish. It was filled with unexpected twists and turns that kept me guessing until the very end. Additionally, the storyline seamlessly blended elements of suspense, mystery, and comedy, which impressed me greatly.
 

Answer 2: The stellar performances: The actors' performances in the film were exceptional and brought the characters to life in a remarkable way. Each actor delivered a compelling portrayal of their respective roles, showcasing their talent and versatility. In particular, the chemistry between the lead actors added depth and authenticity to the film, making it even more enjoyable to watch.

Q2. Did the film meet your expectations, or were you surprised by any aspects of it?

Answer 1: It exceeded my expectations: I went into the movie with high hopes, but it turned out even better than expected. The story was more engaging, the action scenes were more thrilling, and the special effects were more impressive than I thought they would be. Overall, it was a pleasant surprise.
 

Answer 2: It surprised me in some ways. While I had some expectations for the movie, certain aspects caught me off guard. For example, I didn't expect the plot twist halfway through the film, and I was pleasantly surprised by how well it was executed. Additionally, some character developments were unexpected but added depth to the story.

Q3. Would you recommend this film to others, and if so, why?

Answer 1: Yes, I would definitely recommend this film to others because it's a thrilling and entertaining ride from start to finish. The story keeps you on the edge of your seat, and the humour adds fun to the suspense. The chemistry between the lead actors makes the movie even more enjoyable.
 

Answer 2: Yes, I think this film would be great for anyone looking for a good time at the movies. It's got something for everyone – mystery, humour, and action. Plus, it's a great movie night with friends or family. Overall, it's a really fun and enjoyable film that I think many people would like.

Q4. How did the film compare to other movies you've watched?

Answer 1: It was more thrilling: This one was more exciting compared to other movies. It had many suspenseful moments and kept me on the edge of my seat throughout. Other movies I've watched didn't have as many twists and turns.

 

Answer 2: It was funnier: This movie was funnier than most other movies I've seen. It had a lot of jokes and made me laugh out loud multiple times. Other movies I've watched were good, but they didn't have as many funny moments as this one.

FAQs

Q. Is there any dress code for speaking in IELTS?

Ans. No, there isn’t any specific dress code for your IELTS speaking test. You can wear any clothes that make you comfortable and look confident. Formal clothes are not necessary. However, make sure you do not dress too casually. Making a good first impression is always better.

Q. How do I improve my speaking skills?

Ans. Improving your speaking skills is a long-term process. Some good habits to ensure this are:

  • Listen to daily podcasts, movies, news, and other videos in English
  • Interact with native English speakers
  • Listen to a variety of accents and try them
  • Try to watch movies without subtitles and try to figure out the words on your own
  • Try learning new words and applying them in your speech
Q. What are some tips for performing better in the IELTS Speaking test?

Ans. Some good practices to improve your performance for your Speaking test are:

  • Understand the task properly
  • Use the preparation time wisely
  • Do not by-heart your answers
  • Speak clearly and fluently
  • Check Vocabulary and Grammar
Q. What is the duration of the IELTS cue card section?

Ans. Your cue card section will last 3-4 minutes. The first minute is preparation time. You can use this to prepare and structure your answer well. Later, you will be given 2-3 minutes to speak. Speak confidently and make sure your speech is audible, clear, and concise.

Q. Do IELTS cue cards repeat?

Ans. Yes, IELTS cue cards can repeat, but the topics are often similar. Practising a wide range of cue card topics is beneficial as it helps you prepare for potential variations. Familiarity with different themes will enhance your ability to respond effectively during the Speaking test.

Q. How should I manage my time during the Cue Card task?

Ans. Use the one-minute preparation time wisely during the Cue Card task by jotting down key points. Allocate roughly two minutes to speak, ensuring you cover the main aspects of the topic. Stay focused, avoid unnecessary details, effectively manage your time, and respond well.

Q. Can I express my opinion during the test, even if it's different from the examiner's?

Ans. Yes, you can express your opinion during the IELTS Speaking test, even if it differs from the examiner's. The test assesses your communication ability; having a different opinion is acceptable. Focus on clear communication, fluency, and language usage to convey your thoughts confidently.

Q. How do you crack the Cue Card task?

Ans. To crack the Cue Card task, practice regularly with various topics. Use the one-minute preparation wisely to plan your response. Speak, addressing all aspects of the topic, and maintain a natural tone. Reflect on feedback to improve and build confidence in delivering well-structured responses.

Q. How do you find resources for practising cue-card topics?

Ans. To practice cue card topics for the IELTS speaking test, you can use official IELTS websites, preparation books like the Cambridge IELTS series, and online forums where test-takers share experiences. Additionally, language learning apps often offer IELTS modules with speaking practice. Engaging in speaking practice with partners or enrolling in IELTS coaching centres can also enhance your preparation. Focus on expressing ideas clearly and fluently within the given time.

Q. Can I exceed the time limit during the speaking test?

Ans. No, you cannot exceed the time limit during the IELTS speaking test. Each section has a specific time allocation, and exceeding it may affect your scores. It is crucial to manage your time effectively, providing concise yet comprehensive answers within the designated time frames. Practice speaking on various topics to develop the skill of expressing ideas within time constraints.

Q. What is the difference between IELTS speaking parts 2 and 3?

Ans. In Part 2 of IELTS speaking, you talk about a given topic for two minutes after preparing for one minute. It's like giving a short speech. In Part 3, the examiner asks you more questions about the topic from Part 2. These questions are more challenging and like conversing with the examiner.

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