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Updated on Sep 03, 2024, 12:12
An IELTS Speaking cue card is a prompt given during the IELTS Speaking test that requires you to speak about a specific topic for 1-2 minutes. The Speaking module of IELTS assesses your ability to communicate effectively in English through a face-to-face interview with an examiner. The module consists of an introduction and interview, a long turn where you speak on a cue card topic, and a two-way discussion.
One common cue card topic is describing a problem you had while shopping online or in a store. This topic allows you to discuss your experiences, highlighting any issues you encountered and how you dealt with them. This page will explore sample answers for this topic to help you prepare effectively and confidently.
Introduction (Covers: When it happened):
Describing Your Experience/Opinion (Covers: What you bought?):
Key Highlights (Covers: What problem you had?):
Conclusion (Covers: Explain how you felt about the experience):
Introduction (Covers: When it happened):
Describing Your Experience/Opinion (Covers: What you bought?):
Key Highlights (Covers: What problem you had?):
Conclusion (Covers: Explain how you felt about the experience):
Introduction (Covers: When it happened):
Describing Your Experience/Opinion (Covers: What you bought?):
Key Highlights (Covers: What problem you had?):
Conclusion (Covers: Explain how you felt about the experience):
Knowing how to effectively answer cue card topics is crucial for success in the IELTS Speaking test. When the cue card section starts, the examiner will give you a card with a specific topic and some prompts.
Here’s how we can effectively deal with the above sections:
Introduction (Covers: When it happened):
Describing Your Experience/Opinion (Covers: What you bought?):
Key Highlights (Covers: What problem you had?):
Conclusion (Covers: Explain how you felt about the experience):
By following this structure, you can deliver a clear and comprehensive response within the two-minute time limit, showcasing your ability to handle unexpected situations and communicate effectively.
Also Read:
The follow-up questions, also known as Part 3: Two-way discussion, occur after you have spoken about your cue card topic. In this round, the examiner will ask you further questions related to the topic you discussed.
Question 1. What kind of customer service do you think is good?
Answer 1:
I think good customer service should be responsive and helpful. When I had a problem with my online order, I expected quick responses and clear solutions. Effective customer service should also be polite and empathetic, understanding the customer's frustration and working diligently to resolve the issue.
Answer 2:
Good customer service, in my opinion, involves clear communication and swift problem-solving. When I faced an issue with my online purchase, I appreciated when the customer service representative was knowledgeable and could offer practical solutions immediately. It also helps when the service is available through various channels, like phone, email, and chat.
Question 2: What is the difference between shopping online and in-store?
Answer 1:
Shopping online offers convenience and a wider range of products, but it can come with delays and uncertainties about product quality. In contrast, shopping in-store allows you to see and feel the product before buying, which reduces the risk of disappointment. However, it can be time-consuming and less convenient.
Answer 2:
When shopping online, you can easily compare prices and read reviews, which helps in making informed decisions. However, the downside is the waiting time for delivery and potential issues with returns. Shopping in-store, on the other hand, provides immediate gratification and the ability to ask staff for advice, but you might not find the same variety of products.
Question 3: What problem do customers often have while shopping?
Answer 1:
One common problem customers face is misleading product descriptions. I have experienced receiving items that did not match their online descriptions, leading to disappointment and the hassle of returns. Clear and accurate product information is crucial to avoid such issues.
Answer 2:
Another frequent issue is poor customer service. When I had a problem with a delayed order, the lack of timely and helpful responses made the situation worse. Effective customer service is essential to address and resolve problems efficiently, ensuring a positive shopping experience.
Question 4: What do you think customers should do when there are problems with the product bought online?
Answer 1:
Customers should first contact the retailer’s customer service to report the issue and seek a resolution, whether it’s a refund, replacement, or repair. It’s important to provide all necessary details, including order number and photos if applicable, to expedite the process.
Answer 2:
When facing problems with online purchases, customers should read the return policy carefully and follow the prescribed steps for returns or complaints. Keeping records of all communications and transactions can help in resolving disputes. If the retailer is unresponsive, considering consumer protection agencies might be necessary.
Ans. If you find the cue card topic unclear, don't panic. You can ask the examiner to clarify or repeat the question. Take a moment to think about keywords and main ideas related to the topic. Begin by briefly stating what you understand about the topic, and then elaborate on related experiences or opinions.
Ans. It's advisable to use semi-formal language during your cue card task. While you should speak naturally, avoid very casual language or slang. This demonstrates your ability to communicate effectively in a professional setting, which is important for the IELTS Speaking test evaluation.
Ans. Common cue card topics include describing a memorable event, discussing a favourite book or movie, talking about a historical place, and sharing experiences related to travel, hobbies, or challenges. These topics are designed to prompt you to speak for up to two minutes on a specific subject, showcasing your fluency, coherence, and vocabulary range.
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