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Updated on Sep 13, 2024, 06:45
The IELTS Speaking Test topic "Describe a Time When Your Computer Broke Down" is a cue card topic that requires you to narrate a personal experience related to a computer malfunction. In this task, you’ll discuss a specific instance when your computer failed, focusing on what happened, how it affected you, and how you dealt with the situation. This topic is part of the individual long turn or Round 2 of the speaking test, where you are given one minute to prepare and up to two minutes to speak.
Practising this topic helps improve your IELTS Speaking skills by enhancing your ability to narrate events clearly and cohesively. It also encourages you to use a range of vocabulary related to technology and problem-solving, which can strengthen your overall fluency and coherence. By reflecting on and articulating such experiences, you develop the skills to handle a variety of speaking prompts effectively.
Introduction (Covers: When was it?)
Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest (Covers: What were you doing?)
Key Highlights (Covers: What did you do about it?)
Conclusion (Covers: How did you feel about it?)
Introduction (Covers: When was it?)
Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest (Covers: What were you doing?)
Key Highlights (Covers: What did you do about it?)
Conclusion (Covers: How did you feel about it?)
Introduction (Covers: When was it?)
Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest (Covers: What were you doing?)
Key Highlights (Covers: What did you do about it?)
Conclusion (Covers: How did you feel about it?)
Also Read: Best IELTS Cue Cards for 7+ Band Score
When the cue card section begins, the examiner will hand you a cue card titled "Describe a Time When Your Computer Broke Down."
You will have one minute to prepare your response and then up to two minutes to speak about the topic. During your preparation time, you can make notes to help organise your thoughts
The best way to answer a cue card is to break it down into smaller pieces: introduction, describing your experience, key highlights, and conclusion. To structure your response effectively, you can explore various tips and tricks for the IELTS speaking test.
Introduction (Covers: When was it?)
Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest (Covers: What were you doing?)
Key Highlights (Covers: What did you do about it?)
Conclusion (Covers: How did you feel about it?)
By following this structure, you can ensure your response is clear, organised, and within the two-minute limit.
Also Read:
In the IELTS Speaking test, after completing the cue card round, you'll move on to the follow-up questions, also known as Round 3. This round involves discussing more general topics related to your cue card. The examiner will ask questions to explore your opinions and thoughts in greater depth.
Expect these questions to be broader and aimed at assessing your ability to express and justify your views. Your responses should be thoughtful and well-structured, drawing on personal experiences and opinions.
Answer 1: People use computers for a variety of tasks, such as working from home, studying, and staying connected through social media. For instance, many people rely on computers to complete professional assignments, access educational resources, and communicate with friends and family. Computers are also essential for managing finances, entertainment, and accessing information online.
Answer 2: Computers are used for numerous purposes, including office work, online shopping, and recreational activities. Many individuals use them for tasks like writing reports, browsing the internet, and streaming movies. Additionally, computers are crucial for research, email communication, and social networking, making them versatile tools in everyday life.
Answer 1: I think addiction to computers can be quite concerning as it may lead to a range of issues, such as poor physical health and decreased social interactions. Excessive screen time can affect one’s posture, sleep patterns, and overall well-being. It’s important for individuals to find a balance and ensure they engage in other activities and maintain healthy habits.
Answer 2: People who are addicted to computers often face challenges like reduced physical activity and weakened social relationships. While computers offer many benefits, an over-reliance can negatively impact mental and physical health. I believe it's crucial for those affected to seek a balance and take regular breaks to maintain a healthier lifestyle.
Answer 1: Yes, I believe students should be allowed to use computers in class as they provide valuable resources for learning. Computers can help students access educational materials, conduct research, and engage in interactive learning activities. However, it’s important that their use is monitored to ensure it enhances the learning experience rather than becoming a distraction.
Answer 2: Allowing students to use computers in class can be beneficial as it offers them access to a wide range of information and tools for learning. Computers can facilitate interactive lessons and help with research projects. However, schools should implement guidelines to ensure that computer use remains focused on educational objectives and does not lead to distractions.
Answer 1: I think computers generally make our lives simpler by providing easy access to information, simplifying communication, and automating tasks. They streamline many processes, from online banking to managing schedules. However, they can also add complexity with issues like technical problems and the need to constantly update software.
Answer 2: Computers can both simplify and complicate our lives. On one hand, they offer convenience by allowing us to perform tasks quickly and efficiently. On the other hand, they can create complexity through technical issues and the constant need to adapt to new technologies. Balancing their benefits and challenges is key to managing their impact effectively.
Ans. Part 2 of the IELTS Speaking test lasts for approximately 3-4 minutes. You will be given a task card with a topic and prompts, which you should prepare for 1 minute before speaking. You are expected to talk for 1-2 minutes on the given topic. After your response, the examiner may ask a few follow-up questions related to the topic to further assess your speaking skills.
Ans. If you do not achieve the score you need in the IELTS Speaking test, you can retake the test at any time. Review your performance to understand your weaknesses and areas that need improvement. Consider taking additional practice sessions or enrolling in a preparation course to address these areas. Use the feedback from your previous test to enhance your speaking skills before attempting again.
Ans. When tackling the cue card section, focus on clarity, coherence, and the use of appropriate vocabulary. Address all points on the cue card thoroughly and maintain a logical flow in your response. Utilise a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures to showcase your language proficiency. Practice organising your thoughts quickly and speaking fluently to ensure a well-rounded answer.
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