Describe A Time You Saw Something Interesting On Social Media: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

You should say

When was it?
What did you see?
Where did you see it?
How you felt about it
And Explain why you think it was interesting.

60 unique answers with expert feedback

How do you think social media influences political movements?

Social media plays a crucial role in shaping political movements by providing a platform for awareness and mobilization. It allows individuals to share information quickly, organize protests, and connect with like-minded people. This can lead to significant changes, as seen in various global movements.

What other examples of youth activism have you seen on social media?

There are numerous examples of youth activism on social media, such as the Black Lives Matter movement, climate strikes led by figures like Greta Thunberg, and various protests against government policies. These movements highlight the power of young voices in advocating for change and raising awareness on critical issues.

Do you believe social media can sometimes spread misinformation?

Yes, social media can spread misinformation rapidly due to the ease of sharing content. False information can go viral before it is fact-checked, leading to confusion and misperceptions. It's essential for users to critically evaluate sources and verify information before sharing it.

Band 7

00:00

A few months ago, I came across something really interesting on Instagram. I was scrolling through my feed in the evening and one of my favorite pages posted a short video about a new skincare technique that has recently become popular. Since I am a cosmetologist, anything related to skincare immediately grabs my attention. The video was about a treatment called Black Skin Facial which promises me an entire, extremely smooth and glowing appearance. The creator showed the step-by-step process including cleansing, exfoliating, applying serums and using a special hydration mask. What made the video fascinating was the transformation. Before and after results looked almost unbelievable. The skin looked crystal clear and radiant. I found it interesting for two reasons. First, the video was very well made, short but informative and visually appealing. Second, it introduced me to a trend that many people are now trying. It actually helped me learn a new technique that I could later apply in my professional work. This post stayed in my mind because it was not just entertaining but also useful. Social media usually has a lot of random content but this particular video was both educational and inspiring for me. The Black Skin Facial I have seen especially for Korean skincare channels. The Korean skincare is extremely beautiful and the step-by-step procedure is also really great for maintaining the glass skin facial.

Follow up questions

How do you think social media influences beauty trends?

Social media plays a significant role in shaping beauty trends by allowing influencers to showcase new techniques and products. It creates a platform for sharing experiences and results, which can inspire others to try these trends. This rapid spread of information can lead to widespread adoption of certain beauty practices.

What are some other interesting things you've learned from social media?

I've learned about various DIY skincare remedies, makeup techniques, and even wellness tips. Social media is a treasure trove of information, and I often find innovative ideas that I can incorporate into my work or personal routine. It's fascinating how much knowledge is shared in such a short format.

Do you think social media can have negative effects on beauty standards?

Yes, social media can sometimes promote unrealistic beauty standards, leading to pressure on individuals to conform. This can result in low self-esteem and body image issues. It's important to approach social media critically and remember that many images are edited or curated to present an idealized version of beauty.

Band 7

00:00

One of the most interesting things I've come across on social media was a short video about a doctor who designed low-cost prosthetic arms for children using 3D printing. I saw it on Instagram about six months ago while I was scrolling through my feed. The video showed how he created colorful, customizable prosthetic arms for kids who couldn't afford expensive medical devices. What really caught my attention was how he combined medicine, technology, and creativity to make a real difference in people's lives. The children looked so happy and confident after receiving their new arms, and it was heartwarming to see how something so technical could have such an emotional impact. I found it interesting because it reflected the power of innovation and compassion working together. The video showed how he designed low-cost prosthetic arms for children using 3D printing to create colorful, customizable prosthetic arms for kids who couldn't afford expensive medical devices. The video showed how he designed low-cost prosthetic arms for children using 3D printing to create colorful, customizable prosthetic arms for kids who couldn't afford expensive

Follow up questions

How do you think social media influences awareness of important issues?

Social media plays a crucial role in raising awareness about important issues. It allows people to share impactful stories and innovations quickly, reaching a global audience. This can inspire others to take action or contribute to causes, as seen with the prosthetic arms video that highlighted innovation in healthcare.

What other innovations have you seen on social media that impressed you?

I've seen various innovations on social media, such as sustainable fashion initiatives, eco-friendly products, and technology that aids in education. Each of these showcases creativity and problem-solving, similar to the prosthetic arms, and they often motivate others to think about how they can contribute to positive change.

Do you believe social media can have negative effects on society?

Yes, while social media can spread awareness and positivity, it can also lead to misinformation and negativity. The rapid sharing of unverified information can create panic or misunderstanding. It's essential to balance the benefits with the potential downsides, ensuring that we consume content critically.

Practice other cue cards

Band 7

00:00

A time I saw something really interesting on social media was a few months ago when I was scrolling through Instagram. I came across a short video about a street artist who create hyper-realistic paintings using only coffee. At first I thought it was edited but when I watched the full video I realized he was actually painting detailed portraits just by using different shades of coffee. What made it especially interesting was the process. He used a simple brush dipped into a coffee with different containers and he slowly built up the layers. The final portrait looked exactly like a photograph. It amazed me because I had never imagined that something as ordinary as coffee could be used to create such a beautiful artwork. I found this post inspiring and I even shared it with my friends. It reminded me that creativity has no limit and that social media can sometime be a great place to discover unique talent from around the world. It also encouraged me to explore more creative content instead of just scrolling through the random posts. Overall, this moment stood out to me because it was surprisingly creative and quite different from the usual content I see on Instagram and other social media platforms.

Follow up questions

What other interesting content have you seen on social media?

I've seen various interesting content, like DIY projects, cooking tutorials, and travel vlogs. Each offers a unique perspective and inspires creativity. For instance, I recently watched a cooking video that taught me how to make a traditional dish from another culture, which was both educational and entertaining.

How do you think social media influences creativity?

Social media greatly influences creativity by providing a platform for artists and creators to showcase their work. It allows for instant feedback and collaboration, which can inspire others. The exposure to diverse ideas and techniques encourages people to think outside the box and explore their own creative potential.

Do you think social media can have negative effects on creativity?

Yes, social media can have negative effects on creativity. It can lead to comparison and self-doubt, as users may feel pressured to meet certain standards. Additionally, the overwhelming amount of content can cause distraction, making it harder for individuals to focus on their own creative projects.

Band 6-7

00:00

About two months ago, I was scrolling through Instagram and I came across a deal of a science channel where this woman was talking about Cleopatra's tomb being close to being discovered and she was talking about how the search had been going on for centuries and no one had come close to finding this tomb and a lot of archaeologists had basically tried to search a 20 km radius and they had found nothing but then this woman scientist, she had started searching close to the Nile river and she had found remnants and symbols that indicate Cleopatra and she thinks that it might be Cleopatra's tomb that's there and why I found this really really interesting is because Cleopatra had apparently said that only a woman would be able to find her tomb and to see a woman researcher be the first one to sort of come close to discovering it when so many male researchers have tried to find it for so long was really interesting I have always found archaeology fascinating if I had not gone into the area of science I think I would have gone into archaeology and this interesting archaeology for me developed from this subject I had in school called civilization where we basically explored a lot of ancient civilization like Mesopotamia, Indus Valley and so I knew a little bit about the Egyptian civilization and it's great that we are coming close to find such a big piece of Egyptian history that is so controversial and talked about

Follow up questions

What role do you think social media plays in spreading scientific knowledge?

Social media has a significant role in disseminating scientific knowledge. It allows researchers to share their findings with a broader audience, engage with the public, and spark interest in various fields. Platforms like Instagram can make complex topics more accessible and relatable, encouraging discussions.

How do you feel about the representation of women in science and archaeology?

The representation of women in science and archaeology is crucial. It inspires future generations and challenges stereotypes. Seeing women succeed in these fields can motivate young girls to pursue careers in STEM, which is essential for diversity and innovation in research and exploration.

Why do you think ancient civilizations like Egypt fascinate people today?

Ancient civilizations like Egypt fascinate people due to their rich history, mysteries, and cultural achievements. The stories of pharaohs, monumental architecture, and archaeological discoveries captivate our imagination. They provide insights into human history and the evolution of societies, making them timeless subjects of interest.

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Cue 1:When was it?

Mention the specific date or time frame when you saw the interesting post.
Provide context about what was happening in your life at that time.

Example

It was about two weeks ago, on a Saturday afternoon. I was relaxing at home after a busy week at work, scrolling through my social media feed.

Cue 2:What did you see?

Describe the content of the post clearly and concisely.
Include details that make the post stand out, such as images, videos, or text.

Example

I came across a video of a street artist in Mumbai creating a stunning mural. The artist was painting a vibrant depiction of Indian culture, and the video captured the entire process from start to finish.

Cue 3:Where did you see it?

Specify the social media platform where you found the post.
Mention if it was shared by someone you know or if it was trending.

Example

I saw this video on Instagram while browsing through my feed. It was shared by a popular art page that I follow, and it had already garnered thousands of views.

Cue 4:How you felt about it?

Express your emotions and thoughts upon seeing the post.
Explain why it resonated with you personally.

Example

I felt truly inspired and amazed by the artist's talent. It reminded me of the beauty of street art and how it can transform public spaces into something meaningful.

Cue 5:Explain why you think it was interesting.

Discuss the uniqueness of the content and its impact on viewers.
Mention any broader themes or messages conveyed by the post.

Example

I found it interesting because it showcased not just the artistic skill but also the cultural richness of India. It highlighted how art can bring communities together and provoke thought about social issues.

Conclusion

Example

In conclusion, this post was not just a visual treat but also a reminder of the power of art in society. It left me feeling motivated to explore more about street art and perhaps even try my hand at painting.

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 Descriptions

Using vague language makes your response less engaging. Candidates often fail to provide specific details about what they saw, which can lead to a lack of clarity in their answers.

Tip

Include specific details about the content, such as the type of post, the platform, and any notable features that caught your attention.

2: Ignoring Emotional Impact

Not expressing how you felt about the post can make your answer less personal. Candidates sometimes overlook the emotional aspect, which is crucial for a compelling narrative.

Tip

Share your feelings about the post, whether it was surprising, funny, or thought-provoking, to create a more relatable response.

Lack of Explanation

Failing to explain why the post was interesting can leave your answer incomplete. Candidates often skip this part, missing the opportunity to showcase their critical thinking.

Tip

Clearly articulate why the post stood out to you, discussing its relevance, uniqueness, or the message it conveyed to enhance your answer.

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Describe your favourite food at a traditional festival or a special event in your country

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Anonymous student Band 7.5

Pitampura Test Centre, New Delhi

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

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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.