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IELTSTM CUE CARD

Describe A Street Market In Your City: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

Updated on Nov 12, 2024, 10:44

Overview

An IELTS Speaking cue card is a prompt given to test-takers during the speaking section of the IELTS exam. It's designed to assess your ability to speak fluently and coherently on a given topic within a specified time frame. Today, we'll discuss "Describe A Street Market In Your City."
 

Street markets are not just about goods; they are about people. They play a vital role in a city's vibrancy and culture, providing a platform for local vendors to sell their goods and fostering social interaction and community engagement hubs. From fresh produce to handmade crafts, street markets offer a diverse range of products that cater to the needs and preferences of the local population, bringing the community together.
 

Throughout this page, we'll delve into sample answers for this cue card topic, exploring the unique sights, sounds, and experiences of a street market in your city. Whether it's the lively atmosphere of shoppers, the tantalising aroma of street food, or the vibrant displays of merchandise, there's a world of excitement and intrigue waiting to be discovered at your local street market.

 

Cue Card/Topic: Describe A Street Market In Your City

You should say

  • What is it?
  • What is it famous for?
  • How was your experience after going there?
  • How did you feel about the street market?
Sample Answer 1

Introduction:

 

  • So, let me tell you about the bustling street market in my city, Chandni Chowk. 
  • It's a vibrant marketplace that's been around for centuries and is famous for its rich history and diverse offerings. 
  • Whenever you visit Chandni Chowk, you're greeted by a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and smells that immerse you in the local culture.
     

Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest:

 

  • One of the things I love most about Chandni Chowk is the sheer variety of goods available. From traditional Indian clothing and accessories to mouth-watering street food, there's something for everyone. 
  • The market is always teeming with locals and tourists, creating a lively atmosphere that's hard to resist. 
  • Every visit feels like a journey through time, with historical landmarks like the Red Fort and Jama Masjid adding to the area's charm.

 

Key Highlights:

 

  • One of the key highlights of Chandni Chowk is its food scene. 
  • You'll find iconic eateries serving up delicious treats like parathas, chaat, and jalebis that are simply irresistible. 
  • The narrow lanes are lined with vendors selling everything from spices and dry fruits to intricate jewellery and handicrafts. It's a treasure trove of cultural delights waiting to be explored.
     

Conclusion:

 

  • In conclusion, Chandni Chowk's street market is not just a shopping destination but a cultural landmark that encapsulates the essence of India. 
  • Its vibrant energy, diverse offerings, and rich heritage make it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the heart and soul of Delhi. 
  • So, stroll Chandni Chowk the next time you're in town and immerse yourself in its timeless charm.
Sample Answer 2

Introduction:

 

  • So, let me tell you about the bustling street market in my city, Chennai. 
  • It's a vibrant hub of activity where you can find everything from fresh produce to traditional crafts.
  • Whenever I visit, it's like stepping into a world of sights, sounds, and smells that are uniquely Indian.

 

Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest:

 

  • Firstly, the atmosphere is electric, with vendors calling out to passersby and shoppers haggling for the best deals. 
  • It's a truly sensory experience, with the aroma of spices filling the air and the vibrant colours of textiles and flowers catching your eye at every turn. 
  • I always feel a sense of excitement and anticipation when I visit the market, knowing that I'll discover something new and interesting.

 

Key Highlights:

 

  • One of the market's highlights is the variety of street food stalls lining the lanes. From crispy dosas to spicy chaat, there's something to tantalise every taste bud. 
  • Another standout feature is the diversity of products available, from traditional handloom sarees to modern gadgets. 
  • And let's not forget the lively street performances that add to the festive atmosphere, with musicians and dancers entertaining the crowds.
     

Conclusion:

 

  • In conclusion, the street market in Chennai is not just a place to shop but a vibrant cultural experience that showcases the rich tapestry of Indian life. 
  • It's a melting pot of sights, sounds, and smells that never fail to captivate and inspire. 
  • So, if you ever find yourself in Chennai, visit this lively and colourful market—you won't be disappointed!
Sample Answer 3

Introduction:

 

  • Let me paint a picture of the lively street market in my city, Mysore. 
  • It's a bustling marketplace filled with Karnataka culture's vibrant colours and sounds. 
  • Stepping into this market is like immersing yourself in a whirlwind of activity, where every corner offers something new and exciting to discover.

 

Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest:

 

  • Firstly, the aroma of freshly ground spices and the melody of traditional music fills the air as you wander through the narrow lanes of the Mysore market. 
  • The vibrant sarees and intricate handicrafts showcase the region's rich artistic heritage. Secondly, the street food here is a gastronomic delight. 
  • From crispy dosas and spicy vadas to fragrant filter coffee, every bite is a flavour that leaves you craving more. 
  • Lastly, what captivates me the most is the sense of camaraderie among the local vendors and shoppers. A warmth and friendliness permeate the market, making you feel right at home.
     

Key Highlights:

 

  • One of the highlights of the Mysore market is its cultural significance. It is a hub for artisans and craftsmen to showcase their traditional skills and craftsmanship, preserving age-old traditions for generations. 
  • Another highlight is the festive atmosphere, especially during festivals like Dasara, when the market comes alive with colourful decorations and lively performances. 
  • Finally, the market's central location makes it a convenient shopping destination for locals and tourists, adding to its popularity and charm.

 

Conclusion:

 

  • In conclusion, the street market in Mysore is a true reflection of the city's vibrant culture and heritage. 
  • From its bustling lanes to its rich tapestry of sights and sounds, it's a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be explored. 
  • So, if you ever find yourself in Mysore, don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the magic of its street market. You're in for an unforgettable adventure!

When the cue card section starts, the examiner will present a cue card containing a topic, such as "Describe A Market Street In Your City." You will have 1 minute to prepare your response before you begin speaking.
 

The best way to answer these cue cards is to break down your response into small, manageable pieces. Start with an introduction, describe your experience or opinion about the topic, highlight key aspects or features, and conclude your response.

 

Introduction:
 

  • Begin by briefly introducing the topic and providing context. For example, mention the name of the market street in your city and its significance.
  • State why you chose this particular market street to discuss.
  • Express your enthusiasm or interest in exploring this topic further.
     

Describing your experience/opinion/interest:
 

  • Share your personal experiences or memories associated with Market Street. This could include how often you visit, what you enjoy, or any special moments you've had there.
  • Express your opinion on the market street's atmosphere, sights, sounds, and smells. Describe how it makes you feel and why it stands out to you.
  • Discuss any specific market street features or attractions that intrigue you, such as unique shops, street performers, or cultural events.
     

Key highlights:
 

  • Highlight specific details or aspects of the market street that make it memorable or distinctive. This could include the layout of the street, the variety of products sold, or the diversity of people who visit.
  • Describe the hustle and bustle of the market street, painting a vivid picture for the listener.
  • Mention any notable landmarks, architecture, or historical significance associated with the market street.
     

Conclusion:
 

  • Summarise your overall impression of the market street and reiterate why it holds significance to you.
  • Reflect on the importance of market streets in urban life and community culture.
  • End with a closing statement that leaves a lasting impression on the listener.

Follow-Up Questions

In this section, we'll explore potential follow-up questions and provide examples of how to respond confidently. Let's get into these additional queries to help you prepare thoroughly for your speaking test.
 

This is the third part of the IELTS speaking test (a two-way discussion round) and lasts 4-5 minutes. 

 

Q1. Do you like shopping online or going out shopping?

Answer 1: I prefer shopping online for convenience and ease. With just a few clicks, I can browse a wide range of products, compare prices, and read reviews from other shoppers. Plus, online shopping saves me time and effort, as I can shop from my home without having to deal with crowded malls or traffic jams.
 

Answer 2: While online shopping offers convenience, nothing beats the experience of going out shopping in person. I enjoy the opportunity to see and touch the products before making a purchase, as well as the chance to explore different stores and discover new items. Additionally, shopping in person allows me to interact with sales associates and get personalised recommendations, which enhances the overall shopping experience.

Q2. What are the disadvantages of shopping in a big mall?

Answer 1: One disadvantage of shopping in a big mall is the potential for overcrowding, especially during weekends and holidays. Large crowds of shoppers can make navigating through the mall difficult and time-consuming, leading to long lines at checkout counters and crowded aisles. This can detract from the overall shopping experience and create a stressful environment for shoppers.
 

Answer 2: Another disadvantage of shopping in a big mall is the temptation to overspend. With a wide variety of stores and products, getting carried away and making impulse purchases is easy. Additionally, malls often use attractive displays and promotional offers to encourage spending, which can lead to shoppers exceeding their budget and regretting their purchases later.

Q3. In your opinion, are big discounts real or just advertisements?

Answer 1: Big discounts are often real and can provide significant savings for shoppers. Retailers offer discounts for various reasons, such as clearing out old inventory, promoting new products, or attracting customers during sales events like Black Friday. While some discounts may be strategically advertised to draw in customers, many retailers offer reduced product prices to boost sales and remain competitive.
 

Answer 2: From my perspective, big discounts can sometimes be just advertisements aimed at enticing customers without offering substantial savings. In some cases, retailers may inflate the original prices of products to make the discounts appear more attractive, leading shoppers to believe they are getting a better deal than they actually are. Additionally, limited-time offers and flash sales may create a sense of urgency that prompts impulse buying, even if the discounts are not as significant as advertised.

Q4. Do you think people spend more money through online payments?

Answer 1: People may tend to spend more money through online payments due to the convenience and ease of the transaction process. With just a few clicks, shoppers can make purchases from the comfort of their own homes or on the go using their smartphones. Additionally, the seamless checkout experience and stored payment information make it easier for consumers to complete transactions quickly, potentially leading to more frequent and impulsive purchases.
 

Answer 2: From my perspective, people may not necessarily spend more money through online payments, but they may be more susceptible to overspending if they are not mindful of their budget. While online shopping offers convenience and access to a wide range of products, it also requires discipline and self-control to avoid unnecessary purchases. Some individuals may find it easier to track their expenses and stick to a budget when making personal purchases, where they can physically see and handle the items before buying.

FAQs

Q. What is the IELTS Speaking test?

Ans. The IELTS Speaking test is essential to the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). It assesses a candidate's ability to communicate effectively in English through a face-to-face interview with a certified examiner. The test consists of three parts to evaluate the candidate's spoken English proficiency across various topics, including everyday conversations, personal experiences, and abstract discussions. 

Q. How long does the IELTS Speaking test last?

Ans. The IELTS Speaking test typically lasts for about 11 to 14 minutes. It consists of a face-to-face interview with a certified examiner, who evaluates your spoken English proficiency across three parts. During the test, you'll converse with the examiner, answer questions about familiar topics, speak on a given topic briefly, and participate in a discussion about the presented topic.

Q. What is the format of the IELTS Speaking test?

Ans. The IELTS Speaking test consists of a face-to-face interview with a certified examiner. It is divided into three parts and lasts approximately 11-14 minutes. In Part 1, candidates are asked general questions about themselves, their interests, and familiar topics. Part 2 requires candidates to speak on a given topic for 1-2 minutes after being given a cue card with prompts. Finally, in Part 3, candidates engage in a discussion with the examiner on abstract topics related to the cue card theme, providing opinions and justifications.

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