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IELTSTM CUE CARD

Describe a Good Advertisement That You Think Is Useful: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

Updated on Nov 12, 2024, 08:33

Overview

IELTS Speaking is a common module in the IELTS Academic and General Training tests. The 3-parts remain the same in both tests. The cue card round is filled with simple topics such as personal interests, experiences, environmental and societal issues, and general knowledge. One of the most commonly asked topics is, 'Describe a Good Advertisement That You Think Is Useful.'
 

In this topic, you can discuss where you see the advertisement, what the message is, why you think it is useful, and lastly, how you feel about the advertisement.

 

Cue Card/Topic: Describe a Good Advertisement That You Think Is Useful.

You should say

  • Where you can see it?
  • What did it show?
  • Why do you think it is useful?
  • Explain how you feel about it.
Sample Answer 1

Introduction:
 

  • I'd like to discuss an advertisement that I find pretty helpful and memorable.

 

Where you can see it?
 

  • This advertisement is frequently displayed on billboards across major cities in India, particularly in commercial areas and busy intersections.
     

What did it show?
 

  • The advertisement promotes a popular mobile network provider and its latest data plans. 
  • It features vibrant visuals of people enjoying seamless smartphone connectivity while engaging in activities like streaming videos, browsing social media, and video calling.
     

Why do you think it is useful?
 

  • This advertisement is helpful because it effectively communicates the benefits of the mobile network provider's services, particularly its fast and reliable data connectivity. 
  • In today's digital age, where staying connected is essential, the advertisement highlights how the network can enhance the user experience and meet the demands of modern-day communication and entertainment needs.
     

Explain how you feel about it:
 

  • I am drawn to this advertisement because it portrays scenarios that resonate with my experiences of using mobile data for various purposes. 
  • The visuals are captivating, and the message is clear, making me consider switching to this network provider for a better mobile data experience.
     

Conclusion:
 

  • This advertisement is a prime example of effective advertising in India's dynamic telecommunications market. 
  • By showcasing the benefits of its services compellingly, the advertisement captures the audience's attention and persuades them to consider the network provider for their connectivity needs.
Sample Answer 2

Introduction:
 

  • I'd like to discuss an advertisement for Zomato, a widely used food delivery service in India, that I find particularly useful and practical.
     

Where you can see it?
 

  • This advertisement is prominently displayed on billboards, social media platforms, and television commercials across India.

 

What did it show?
 

  • The advertisement features a diverse range of delicious food items from various cuisines, showcasing the vast array of options on the Zomato app. 
  • It also highlights the convenience of ordering food with just a few taps on the mobile app.
     

Why do you think it is useful?

 

  • This advertisement is incredibly useful because it effectively communicates Zomato's value proposition: providing access to a wide range of cuisines and restaurants, all conveniently accessible through its app. 
  • It appeals to busy individuals and food enthusiasts alike, allowing them to enjoy their favourite meals delivered to their doorstep.
     

Explain how you feel about it:
 

  • As a frequent user of the Zomato app myself, I find this advertisement compelling and relatable. 
  • It captures what makes Zomato such a convenient and enjoyable service, making me feel excited about exploring new culinary experiences and easily ordering delicious food.
     

Conclusion:
 

  • The Zomato advertisement effectively showcases the app's benefits and features in a visually appealing and engaging manner. 
  • It reminds users of the platform's convenience and variety, making it a valuable resource for food lovers across India.
Sample Answer 3

Introduction:
 

  • I'd like to discuss an advertisement for Swiggy, a leading food delivery service in India, which I find particularly effective and useful.
     

Where you can see it?
 

  • This advertisement is prominently featured on digital platforms such as social media, television commercials, and outdoor billboards in various cities across India.
     

What did it show?
 

  • The advertisement showcases various delectable food items from different restaurants, ranging from local favourites to international cuisines. 
  • It highlights the ease and convenience of ordering food through the Swiggy app, with vibrant visuals and catchy slogans.
     

Why do you think it is useful?
 

  • This advertisement is useful because it effectively communicates Swiggy's core value proposition—offering a diverse selection of food options and seamless delivery services. 
  • It appeals to consumers by emphasising the convenience of ordering food online, especially on busy days or when craving something specific.
     

Explain how you feel about it:
 

  • As a regular Swiggy user, I find this advertisement relatable and engaging. 
  • It captures the essence of what makes Swiggy such a convenient and reliable service, sparking my interest and encouraging me to explore new dining experiences through the app.
     

Conclusion:
 

  • The Swiggy advertisement effectively conveys the app's benefits and features visually, visually appealing and compellingly. 
  • It reminds consumers of Swiggy's convenience and variety, making it a go-to choice for food delivery in India.

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

The ideal way to answer cue card prompts is to break them into digestible sections. Think of it this way: no matter your topic, there is always an introduction, key highlights, and a conclusion. 
 

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

Introduction:
 

  • Briefly introduce the advertisement you will be discussing.
  • Mention where you encountered or saw the advertisement.
     
“I'd like to discuss an advertisement for Zepto, an emerging e-commerce platform in India, that I find particularly useful and impactful.”


 

Where you can see it?

 

  • Describe the platform or medium where the advertisement is displayed.
  • Mention if it's on television, social media, billboards, or any other platform.
     
“This advertisement can be found across various digital platforms, including social media channels like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, as well as on the Zepto website and mobile app.”

 

 What did it show?
 

  • Describe the content of the advertisement.
  • Highlight the key message or product/service being promoted.
  • Provide details about any visuals, slogans, or memorable aspects of the advertisement.
     
“The advertisement showcases a wide range of products available on the Zepto platform, including electronics, fashion apparel, home essentials, and more. It highlights the platform's user-friendly interface and the seamless shopping experience it offers customers.”

 

Why do you think it is useful?
 

  • Explain why you find the advertisement helpful or practical.
  • Discuss how the advertisement captures your attention or resonates with you.
  • Mention any specific benefits or solutions the advertisement offers to the audience.
     
“I believe this advertisement is highly useful because it effectively communicates Zepto's value proposition – providing customers with access to a diverse selection of high-quality products at competitive prices, all available at their fingertips. It emphasises the convenience of shopping online and the reliability of Zepto as a trusted e-commerce platform.”

 

Explain how you feel about it:
 

  • Share your personal opinion or feelings about the advertisement.
  • Reflect on how the advertisement impacts your perception of the product/service or brand.
  • Express whether the advertisement successfully influences your decision-making process or prompts you to take action.
     
“As an avid online shopper, I find this advertisement compelling and appealing. It captures what makes Zepto a convenient and reliable option for purchasing a wide range of products, making me feel confident and excited about exploring their offerings.”


 Conclusion:
 

  • Summarise the key points of your description and opinion about the advertisement.
  • Reiterate why you consider it to be a good and helpful advertisement.
     
“The Zepto advertisement effectively communicates the platform's strengths and benefits to potential customers, encouraging them to consider Zepto for their online shopping needs. It serves as a reminder of the convenience and value offered by the platform, making it a valuable resource for shoppers seeking quality products at competitive prices.”

Follow-Up Questions

Below are some sample questions and possible answers. Once again, we recommend that you only take the inspiration from the answers below and add your twist to it! 

Q1: What do you think of online advertising?

Answer 1: Online advertising in India has become ubiquitous, with various platforms and channels used to promote products and services. Many people appreciate the convenience of targeted ads tailored to their interests and preferences, making it easier to discover relevant offerings. Moreover, online advertising has empowered businesses, particularly small enterprises, to reach a wider audience and compete effectively in the digital marketplace.
 

Answer 2: However, some individuals in India find online advertising intrusive and overwhelming, especially when bombarded with excessive ads across websites and social media platforms. They may feel that targeted ads infringe on their privacy, as personal data is often used to customise advertising content. Additionally, the prevalence of ad blockers and the rise of ad fatigue suggest that many people actively seek to minimise exposure to online ads, preferring a less intrusive online experience.

Q2: What do people usually buy?

Answer 1: In India, people typically buy a wide range of products and services to meet their daily needs and desires. This includes groceries, clothing, electronics, household items, and personal care products. Additionally, with the rise of e-commerce platforms like Amazon and Flipkart, online shopping has become increasingly popular, allowing people to purchase items conveniently from the comfort of their homes.
 

Answer 2: Contrarily, some people in India may prioritise spending on experiences rather than material possessions. This includes travel, dining out, entertainment, and leisure activities. Instead of accumulating physical goods, individuals may prefer investing in memorable experiences that enrich their lives and create lasting memories with loved ones. Additionally, with the trend of minimalism and conscious consumption, many people opt for a simpler lifestyle with fewer material possessions.

Q3: Do people watch useless advertisements in this day and age?

Answer 1: Yes, people still need to find useful advertisements in today's digital age, especially through various media channels like television, social media, and websites. In India, where advertising is prevalent across all platforms, individuals often come across irrelevant or intrusive ads that offer little value or relevance to their needs. Despite advancements in targeting and personalisation, ineffective advertising still exists, leading to frustration and annoyance among viewers.
 

Answer 2: With advancements in data analytics and targeted advertising, people are more likely to encounter useful advertisements in today's digital landscape. In India, where digital marketing strategies are becoming more sophisticated, advertisers can tailor their messages to specific demographics, ensuring viewers receive relevant and valuable content. Moreover, consumer feedback mechanisms and ad-blocking tools empower individuals to filter out irrelevant ads, enhancing the overall advertising experience.

Q4: Why does buying new things make people happy?

Answer 1: Buying new things often brings joy because it satisfies immediate desires and provides a sense of accomplishment. In the Indian context, with a cultural emphasis on festivities and celebrations, purchasing new items can signify prosperity and success. Additionally, acquiring new possessions can boost self-esteem and social status, especially in communities where material wealth is highly valued.
 

Answer 2: While buying new things may initially bring happiness, it can also lead to temporary satisfaction and financial strain. In India, where consumerism is rising, excessive spending on unnecessary items can contribute to debt and financial insecurity. Moreover, the fleeting joy of acquiring material possessions may overshadow deeper sources of fulfilment, such as meaningful relationships and personal growth.

FAQs

Q. Is the IELTS speaking test easy?

A. The difficulty level of the IELTS speaking test depends on the individual's proficiency in English and their level of preparation. However, the speaking test evaluates your ability to communicate effectively in English, so practising and improving your speaking skills is essential to score well. With the right preparation, you can feel confident and perform better on the speaking test.

Q. Are speaking tests for Academic and General the same?

A. Yes, the speaking test is the same as the IELTS Academic and General Training tests. It consists of three parts that evaluate your ability to communicate effectively in English.

Q. How do I frame my answer in 1 minute?

A. To frame your answer in one minute, it is essential to understand the cue card topic and related questions. Plan your answer before speaking, and try to cover all the points mentioned in the cue card. Speak clearly and coherently, and use correct grammar and vocabulary to express your thoughts effectively.

Q. What is the marking scheme for the IELTS speaking test?

A. The IELTS speaking test is scored based on four criteria: fluency and Coherence, Lexical Resource, Grammatical Range and Accuracy, and Pronunciation. Each criterion is scored on a scale of 0 to 9, and the average of these scores is calculated to determine your overall speaking band score.

Q. How many hours is the IELTS speaking test?

A. The IELTS speaking test takes approximately 11-14 minutes to complete. The test consists of three parts, each assessing your speaking skills.

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

A. Various resources are available online to practice IELTS cue-card topics. The official IELTS website and other online platforms offer sample cue cards, practice tests, and speaking tips. You can also join online forums and discussion groups to interact with other test takers and learn from their experiences.

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

A. No, you cannot exceed the time limit during the speaking test. Each part of the test has a specific time limit, and you must complete your response within the given time. The examiner will stop you when the time is up, and you cannot continue speaking after that.

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

A. Part 2 of the IELTS speaking test is the cue card round, where you will be given a topic to speak about for 2 minutes. Part 3 is a follow-up discussion based on the topic in part 2, where the examiner will ask you questions related to the topic to evaluate your ability to express your thoughts in English.

Q. What are the common cue cards in IELTS?

A. Common cue card topics in IELTS include personal experiences, hobbies, environmental issues, social issues, and general knowledge. Some examples of cue card topics are "Describe a memorable event from your childhood," "Describe a place you have visited," and "Describe a problem in your country and suggest solutions."

Q. How can I prepare for the IELTS cue card?

A. To prepare for the IELTS cue card round, practice speaking on various topics and develop your vocabulary and grammar skills. You can also record your responses and listen to them to identify areas of improvement. Additionally, familiarise yourself with the marking criteria and structure of the speaking test to feel more confident and prepared.

Q. How can I improve my performance in the IELTS Speaking test?

A. To improve your performance in the IELTS Speaking test, practice regularly and get feedback from a tutor or a native speaker. Work on developing your pronunciation, grammar, and vocabulary skills, and speak confidently and fluently. Listen to English news, movies, and podcasts to improve your comprehension and speaking skills.

Q. Do IELTS cue cards repeat?

A. The IELTS cue cards may repeat, but it is not guaranteed. However, practising on various cue card topics can help you prepare for any unexpected topic in the test. The ideal way to answer cue card prompts is to break them into digestible sections. Think of it this way: no matter your topic, there is always an introduction, key highlights, and a conclusion. 

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