Describe a historical period you would like to know more about: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

You should say

What period do you want to know about?
Why do you want to know about it?
How do you think you can know about it?

4 unique answers with expert feedback

What specific events from that period interest you the most?

I am particularly interested in the social reform movements that emerged during that time, such as those led by figures like Raja Ram Mohan Roy, who fought against practices like sati and advocated for women's rights. Understanding these movements can provide insight into the resistance against caste discrimination.

How do you think these historical practices influence modern Indian society?

The caste system's legacy still affects contemporary Indian society, with ongoing discrimination and social stratification. By studying this historical period, we can better understand the roots of these issues and work towards addressing them in today's context.

What resources would you use to learn more about this historical period?

I would explore a mix of academic books, documentaries, and scholarly articles that focus on the social dynamics of pre-independence India. Additionally, I would look for interviews or narratives from historians who specialize in this era to gain diverse perspectives.

Band 5-6

00:00

I like pictures I like I like movies I like movies at the time I like black and white movies at that time people are so you know amazing amazing in those times in those times I I I like mostly people about their dressing sense about their clothing about their vintage vintage setups and all I like them a lot and I would like to appreciate their fashion sense and I fashion sense and also particularly I would like to mention Savitri she is that she is an amazing actress I like her fashion fashion sense and also I would like to steal her wardrobe whole Tollywood film industry praises are a lot praises are her work and efforts towards the acting career I would like to yeah

Follow up questions

What specific historical events from that period interest you the most?

I am particularly interested in the social changes that occurred during that time, especially how fashion reflected the cultural shifts. Events like the rise of cinema and the impact of world wars on society are fascinating to me.

How do you think fashion from that era influences today's styles?

Fashion from that era has a significant influence on today's styles. Many designers draw inspiration from vintage clothing, and trends like high-waisted pants and retro prints are making a comeback, showing how timeless some of those styles are.

Why do you think Savitri's work is still celebrated today?

Savitri's work is celebrated because she brought depth and emotion to her roles, making her performances memorable. Her unique fashion sense and ability to connect with audiences have left a lasting legacy in the film industry.

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Band 5-6

00:00

The historic period I would like to know about is Egyptian period because I have seen it seen it in movies, read it in books and I have seen it very fantastic and mind blowing so I would like to know about more about Egyptian period because as we have heard about it so many times about their wealth and how they have built the pyramids and if I will get chance or I have read books related to it I would get to know about it that how the pyramids were made in the Egyptian period and we can also see that they have developed so many infrastructures even in today's world we cannot build that structure with so much precision and good work even in today's we are having so much technology and advancement but if we compare to the Egyptian period we cannot define their techniques or their work because they do not have that advancement and technology at that time but they had made so much historical places they are still remarkable no one can even build that infrastructure now a days and as we can see that their structures which are still standing even if earthquake comes flood comes they are still in same position moreover I like about the gold and silver wealth which are been described in the Egyptian period and I would like to collect some samples or some coins related to that period I can read about it more in serials, movies and books

Follow up questions

What specific aspects of the Egyptian period fascinate you the most?

I am particularly fascinated by the construction techniques of the pyramids and the advanced knowledge they had in mathematics and engineering. Additionally, the cultural practices, art, and the significance of their burial rituals intrigue me, as they reflect a deep understanding of life and death.

How do you think studying the Egyptian period can benefit us today?

Studying the Egyptian period can provide insights into ancient engineering, governance, and societal organization. It can inspire modern architecture and urban planning, as well as teach us about sustainability and resource management that can be applied to contemporary challenges.

Are there any specific books or movies about the Egyptian period you would recommend?

Yes, I would recommend 'The Egyptian' by Mika Waltari for a fictional perspective, and documentaries like 'Secrets of the Saqqara Tomb' for a factual account. Movies like 'The Mummy' also provide entertainment while showcasing some historical elements of ancient Egypt.

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Band 5

00:00

What period do you... I didn't remember actually. What period do you want to know about? Why do you want to know about it? How do you think you can know about it? What period do you want to know about? Why do you want to know about it? How do you think you can know about it? Okay. What period do you want to know about? Okay, I understood now. What period do you want to know about? I want to know about it by some videos or just pictures and their life, how they maintained it and did their best part, how they managed to actually live their life maybe. And I also want to know how they indulged themselves into so many of the generation gaps that they face right now. And it could be how they maintain their life right now at this moment, experience the 90s culture more better or 20s, right, currently. That's it.

Follow up questions

What specific historical events from the 90s or 20s interest you the most?

I'm particularly interested in the rise of technology in the 90s, like the internet and mobile phones. It transformed communication and culture. I also find the social movements of the 20s fascinating, especially how they address issues like equality and climate change.

How do you think modern technology affects our understanding of historical periods?

Modern technology allows us to access a wealth of information through documentaries, online archives, and social media. It helps us visualize historical events through videos and images, making it easier to connect with the past and understand the context of those times.

In what ways do you think the experiences of past generations can influence today's society?

The experiences of past generations can teach us valuable lessons about resilience, social change, and cultural evolution. Understanding their struggles and achievements can inspire us to address current issues and shape a better future, bridging the gaps between generations.

Show all 4 answers

Cue 1:What period do you want to know about?

Clearly state the historical period you are interested in, such as the Mughal Empire or the Indian Independence Movement.
Provide a brief description of the key events or characteristics of that period.

Example

I would like to know more about the Mughal Empire, which flourished in India from the early 16th to the 18th century. This period is known for its rich culture, stunning architecture, and significant advancements in art and science.

Cue 2:Why do you want to know about it?

Explain your personal interest in this period, such as its impact on modern India or its cultural significance.
Mention any specific aspects that intrigue you, like historical figures or events.

Example

I am fascinated by the Mughal Empire because it played a crucial role in shaping India's cultural landscape. The stories of emperors like Akbar and Shah Jahan, along with the architectural marvels like the Taj Mahal, inspire me to learn more about how they influenced society and governance.

Cue 3:How do you think you can know about it?

Discuss various methods you could use to learn more, such as reading books, watching documentaries, or visiting historical sites.
Consider engaging with experts or historians through lectures or online courses.

Example

To learn more about the Mughal Empire, I plan to read historical books and biographies of key figures from that era. Additionally, I would love to watch documentaries that explore the empire's influence on art and culture. Visiting historical sites like Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri would also provide me with a deeper understanding of that time.

Conclusion

Summarize your interest in the historical period and the methods you plan to use for learning.
Reiterate the significance of understanding this period in the context of modern society.

Example

In conclusion, my interest in the Mughal Empire stems from its profound impact on India's history and culture. By exploring various resources and visiting historical sites, I hope to gain a comprehensive understanding of this fascinating period and its relevance to contemporary India.

Following this structure will ensure you cover all the essential points while providing a clear and engaging response to the cue card topic.

Tips to answer this Cue Card

1: Vague Responses

Providing unclear or general answers can make your response less engaging. It's important to be specific about the historical period you choose and your reasons for wanting to learn more.

Tip

Choose a specific historical period and explain its significance to you. Use examples to illustrate your interest.

2: Lack of Structure

Failing to organize your thoughts can lead to a confusing answer. A well-structured response helps the examiner follow your ideas more easily.

Tip

Use the cue prompts to structure your answer: start with the period, then explain your interest, and finally discuss how you plan to learn more.

Overly Simple Language

Using very basic vocabulary can make your response sound unprepared. It's important to demonstrate your language skills while still being clear.

Tip

Incorporate a variety of vocabulary and phrases related to history, but ensure they are appropriate for your level of English.

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Anonymous student Band 7.5

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Answer

I like to taste different types of cuisine. Here I would like to talk about my favorite dish at my traditional festival of Onam which is Sadya. Sadya is popular in my city. We are experimenting these cuisines on Onam festival day. Onam is a famous festival in my city. All family members get together in my home and we make a delicious Sadya. There are many ingredients includes that Sadya. Moreover, we make a big feast that day as well as we create a lot of memories together and we wear that day the traditional dress called Sari and men wear the Dhotis. That festival is really important to us because the whole day we are conducting different kinds of games at our homes and all the family members came together. It's a memorable day in my life. This is the festival. We are making the Sambar and Aviyal. These all the kinds of foods are making with the vegetables.

Talk about a toy you liked in your childhood

Reported by

Anonymous student Band 8

Sector 34 Test Centre, Chandigarh

Answer

The toy which I liked in my childhood was a panda doll, which makes me pleasant and makes me more blush. The pandas are the most beautiful creatures of the world, which looks gigantic and has pooshy cheeks and they are like stars in the clouds and they dream in me. Furthermore, these have been given by my father. My father is a very very beautiful artistic person, who makes me think of that. Every day you will face every difficulties and make you suffer and move forward. Pandas are always seen in Japanese countries. It is my lifelong dream to visit a Japanese country and click a photo with the original pandas, which makes sounds better.

Describe a time you were in a place where you didn't know the local language

Reported by

Anonymous student Band 6.5

Whitefield Test Center, Bengaluru

Answer

As India is a very large country full of diversity, so there are many places which have their own language and speak their native language. The place which I visited and I didn't know about their language was Leladakh, which is about 300 km away from my hometown and it is a very good place as it consists of different kind of trees, animals and have many scenic views and I visited over there last year in summers as it was the best time to visit because it has many, it was cold over there and we had summers in our area so it was the best time to visit over there and I went over there with my whole family.

Describe a time when your friend damaged something you owned

Reported by

Anonymous student Band 7

Begumpet Test Centre, Hyderabad

Answer

When I was a kid, I had a little pencil box which had these four buttons which gave the pencil box an operative use. When you press the button, the box would open up. When you press the second button, a little part of it would slide out. Basically it was just a little electronical and a fun thing to have and I owned it when I was in 6th. One day after break, I was standing and talking there with one of my friends and another friend of mine was running through the hallway and accidentally she pushed my shoulder and my pencil box hit the ground and it broke into multiple pieces to the point that it was not functional anymore.

Describe a book you recently read

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Anonymous student Band 7.5

CBD Belapur Test Centre, Navi Mumbai

Answer

It Ends With Us is a book I read recently. It's by the author Colleen Hoare. It's mainly a story about two teenagers, Atlas and Lily, and how they just handle their life going through high school, adolescence, and just domestic violence at home. Both of them come from very, very different families. However, they have one common determining factor between them, which is domestic violence. The abuse that they've seen their moms go through is just insane, and they connect through that on a different level. They're actually in the same high school, but they never speak to each other until Atlas actually crashes into an empty house next to Lily's villa. When Atlas is homeless and he doesn't have anywhere to go, he just comes and breaks into the house next to Lily's, and Lily helps him with all the daily necessities like clothes and food, medicines and stuff. Furthermore, their friendship blossoms into love, but it doesn't really fructify as Atlas has to leave. This book really gave me a lot of knowledge about domestic abuse and how to deal with it.