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Describe a Toy you Liked in Childhood: IELTS Cue Card

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Updated on Apr 02, 2024, 12:32

The IELTS Speaking test is the simplest of the four modules in IELTS. However, it's important to prepare well to score well.
 

IELTS Speaking is a module common in both IELTS Academic and General Training tests, and all three parts of the test remain the same.

 

The easiest way to master IELTS speaking is to become familiar with IELTS cue cards.


 

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1. Describe a Toy You Liked in Childhood: How to Answer

A good answer for the IELTS cue card section should include a strong introduction, some context to the topic, reasons to support your answer, and how you relate to the topic.

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2. Describe a Toy You Liked in Childhood: Sample Answers

Find the Sample Answers for Describe a Toy You Liked in Childhood IELTS Cue Card here.

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3. Describe a Toy You Liked in Childhood: Follow-up Questions

Part 3 of the IELTS speaking section is the two-way discussion round. The examiner will ask you related questions to the topic given to you in individual long-turn tasks. 

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1.

Describe a Toy You Liked in Childhood: How to Answer?

The second part of the IELTS Speaking test is the Individual Long Turn. It is also called the IELTS Cue Card section. The examiner provides you with a task or cue card in this section. 
 

Check out the symbolic representation of the cue card:

 

Cue Card/Topic: Describe a Toy You Liked in Childhood
You should say

  • What kind of toy was it?
  • When did you get it?
  • Did you share it with others also?
  • How did you feel about it?

 

During the preparation time, the examiner will give you a pen/pencil and a rough sheet to make notes if needed. You can use this time to structure your answer.
 

Afterwards, the examiner will instruct you to begin your answer and remind you of the ending time. 
 

Once given a cue card, the next step is to plan your answer. During the 1-minute preparation time, you have to structure your answer. 
 

Begin your answer by providing a short introduction to the topic. Then, explain your topic in detail. In the end, give a brief conclusion to your speech. 
 

One of the effective ways to answer a cue card topic is by breaking down the topic into 4 parts that are: Introduction, Cue Card Questions, Your feelings regarding the topic and Conclusion. This way, you can cover all the major sides of the topic.

 

Now, you can find major points to answer each of these questions. Answer them one after the other, and do not elaborate too much on a single answer. Try to cover all the questions within the given time. 


 

Introduction

 

  • Start your answer with a catchy phrase or idiom. This will act as a good opener for your answer.
     

For example, “There is no fun without toys in childhood”.
 

  • Brief your central opinion or idea. 
     

For example, “I was passionate about collecting dolls or cars in childhood”. 


 

What kind of toy was it?
 

  • Explain what type of toy it was. Here, you can provide details about the toy, such as what type it was and whether it was girly or boyish.
     

For example, “I went out with my mother, and I saw a toy store with many cars. I got so fascinated and wanted to get one for myself.”. 


 

When did you get it?
 

  • Here, you can mention the person who gifted you the toy, whether you got it for yourself or whatever you prefer.
     
  • Along with mentioning the toy, you can add 1-2 lines about the person or yourself.
     

For example, “My grandmother gifted me a doll set along with dressing and its makeup set”.


 

Did you also share it with others?
 

  • Provide reasons why you shared your toy. 
  • You can explain the context and reasons why you felt like sharing. 
     

For example, “I have a cousin with whom I am very close, so whenever she comes to my place, I used to share my toys with her”.

 

How did you feel after sharing it?
 

  • This is your place to be creative and expressive. Explain how you felt after sharing your favourite toy.
  • Give reasons for why you shared it with a specific person.
     

For example, “My cousin is so special to me as we share a very good bond, which is why I like sharing my toys and other things with her”.

 

Conclusion 
 

  • End your speech on a positive note. 
  • Here, you can conclude your speech by recalling your main idea. 
     

For example, “How sharing your favourite things like toys with your friends or cousins can deepen the bond and strengthen relationships from childhood only”.



 


 

2.

Describe a Toy You Liked in Childhood: Sample Answers

Find the Sample Answers for Describe a Toy You Liked in Childhood IELTS Cue Card here.

Sample Answer 1
Sample Answer 2
Sample Answer 3

Introduction
 

  •  A toy is more than just an object to many; it's a vessel of joy, imagination and often fond memories. 
     
  • I would like to share a memory from my childhood involving a particularly special toy - a miniature remote-controlled car. 
     
  • Acquired during my early years, this tiny vehicle became a source of personal delight and an avenue through which I learned the joy of sharing with others.
     

What kind of toy was it?
 

  • The toy was given to me by my parents on my 8th birthday and it was an elegant red remote-controlled car they had given me. 
     
  • It was instantly liked because of its small size and bright colour. 

     

When did you get it?
 

  • This wonderful device entered my world on a sunny afternoon at my birthday party. 
     
  • Unwrapping the gift, a compact box containing such an extraordinary object was revealed, setting up countless hours of playful exploration.
     

Did you also share it with others?
 

  • One of my favourite memories of this toy is when I decided to share the joy of my newfound treasure. 
     
  • The miniature red car became the centre of shared laughter and excitement during playdates with friends and gatherings with cousins. 
     
  • As we passed the remote control, we took turns steering our car through makeshift tracks, creating a sense of comradeship and mutual joy.
     

How did you feel after sharing it?
 

  • There was a special sense of satisfaction in sharing the remote control car. 
     
  • Seeing the joy on the faces of friends and family as they experienced the simple pleasure of driving a small car added an extra layer of happiness. 
     
  • It's taught me that sharing can enhance joy, a lesson deeper than toys.
     

Conclusion
 

  • In retrospect, that little red car was more than just a plaything; it had been the catalyst for learning about generosity and mutual satisfaction. 
     
  • Sharing this toy became a foundational experience that shaped my understanding of the intrinsic value of giving and communal enjoyment. 
     
  • This childhood memory speaks of the lasting power of everyday moments, where a little toy has become an instrument for sharing joy, laughter and mutual connections.
3.

Describe a Toy You Liked in Childhood: Follow-up Questions

We have given four follow-up questions for ‘Describe a toy you liked in childhood’ IELTS Speaking Cue Card. The examiner will engage the test taker in a more detailed discussion of the topic introduced in Part 2 in Part 3 of the IELTS Speaking test. The purpose of this section is to assess your ability to express your views, by giving explanations and discussing ideas in relation to the topic.
 

You have 4-5 minutes to elaborate on your previous responses and express your opinions. Listen carefully, speak clearly, and use appropriate vocabulary and grammar to engage in a discussion.

Follow-Up Question 1

Q1. Do you think children nowadays prefer similar toys?
 

Answer A:  While the appeal of remote-controlled cars is still there, I think today's kids could be leaning towards more technologically advanced toys, such as drones or interactive robots. The essence of controlling something remains, but the form and features have evolved with technological advancements.
 

Answer B:  Modern children may be drawn to dolls with additional features, such as interactive capabilities, virtual companions or configurable elements, even though they continue to have an enduring appeal. Nevertheless, the traditional charm of dolls continues to offer a combination of classic play and innovation.

Follow-Up Question 2

Q2. Do you still have your childhood toy?
 

Answer A:  Unfortunately, the remote-controlled car had suffered wear and tear over several years until it was finally out of operation. Although I'm not carrying that first toy anymore, my memories of the endless hours of happiness it gave me are far from over.

 

Answer B:  No, I don't have any more childhood dolls right now. The doll had been worn and fragile over the years as I'd evolved through different stages of my life. Although the physical doll is no longer with me, the sentimental value and joy it brought me in my earliest years are still a lasting memory of my childhood.

Follow-Up Question 3

Q3. Did your favourite toy influence your hobbies or interests later in life?
 

Answer A:  Of course, yes. My fascination with technology and mechanics was stimulated by the remote control vehicle. As I grew older, this interest evolved into a passion for engineering, shaping my academic and professional interests.

 

Answer B:  I'm sure my favourite toy from childhood has played a subtle yet influential role in shaping my interests into adulthood. My early interest in narrative and creativity was triggered by the imaginative play and storytelling I'd been playing with that doll. This influence stayed with me, and I became interested in literature and storytelling. 

Follow-Up Question 4

Q4. Does modern technology influence children’s toys?
 

Answer A:  Yes, children's toys are affected nowadays by new technologies. Children are also attracted to these toys, such as computer chips, voice recognition, etc.
 

Answer B:  Traditional toys are transforming as they integrate modern technology into today's Digital Age. Some toys are now equipped with interactive screens, augmented reality, voice recognition and connectivity to mobile phones. Smart toys, robotics, and educational apps have allowed children a more interactive and sophisticated experience in play.

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FAQs

Q. What can I do if I don’t understand the cue card topic?

A. If you don't understand the cue card topic, you can politely ask the examiner to repeat or rephrase the topic. However, remember that you only have one minute to prepare your response, so it's best to listen carefully and understand the topic to the best of your ability. If you still find it difficult to understand, you can ask for clarification of specific words or phrases. It's important to stay calm and composed during the test and make the most of the given time.

Q. Can I use informal language during my cue card task?

A. It's best to avoid using informal language during your cue card task. You should use clear and concise language that effectively communicates your ideas. Using slang, contractions, or overly casual language may detract from the quality of your response and make it more difficult for the examiner to understand your points. It's important to strike a balance between being conversational and maintaining a level of professionalism during the task.

Q. What are some of the common cue card topics?

A. Common cue card topics include describing a person who has influenced you, discussing a memorable childhood event, discussing a book or place that left an impression, describing a hobby, sharing a challenge you overcame, or discussing a current event. Remember to listen carefully, use the one-minute preparation time to organise your thoughts, and speak clearly and professionally.

Q. Is the IELTS speaking test easy?

A. The difficulty of the IELTS speaking test can vary depending on your level of proficiency in the language. For some test-takers, the speaking test may be relatively easy, while for others, it may be more challenging. However, adequate preparation and practice can improve your confidence and performance during the speaking test. It's important to familiarise yourself with the test format, practice speaking on various topics, and seek feedback from an experienced tutor or teacher to help you identify areas for improvement.

Q. Are speaking tests for Academic and General the same?

A. The speaking test is the same for both the Academic and General Training modules of the IELTS. However, the topics may differ slightly depending on the module. The test assesses your ability to communicate effectively in English in everyday situations. It's important to familiarise yourself with the specific format and requirements of the module you are taking to prepare effectively for the speaking test.

Q. How do I frame my answer in 1 minute?

A. To frame your answer in one minute during the IELTS speaking test, read the cue card carefully, underline key points, brainstorm related ideas and examples, and use clear and concise language to answer the question directly. You don't need to memorise your answer or speak for the entire two minutes, but try to communicate your ideas effectively in the limited time available.

Q. What is the marking scheme for the IELTS speaking test?

A. The IELTS speaking test is evaluated on four criteria: Fluency and Coherence, Lexical Resource, Grammatical Range and Accuracy, and Pronunciation. Each criterion is scored on a scale of 0 to 9, and scores are added to give an overall band score. To get a high score, use a wide range of vocabulary and sentence structures, speak clearly and confidently, and maintain a natural pace and tone. Practice with a tutor to improve your performance on the test.

Q. How many hours is the IELTS speaking test?

A. The IELTS speaking test lasts approximately 11-14 minutes and consists of three parts. During this time, you will be evaluated on your ability to communicate effectively in English in everyday situations. The test is conducted face-to-face with a certified IELTS examiner. Prepare by practising speaking on various topics, familiarising yourself with the test format, and seeking feedback from a tutor.

Q. How do you find resources for practising cue-card topics?

A. To practice IELTS cue card topics, check resources such as the official IELTS website, YouTube, practice books, and IELTS preparation courses. These resources provide sample cue card topics and speaking test questions to help you prepare. Remember to practice regularly and use available resources to improve your speaking skills and familiarize yourself with the test format.

Q. Can I exceed the time limit during the speaking test?

A. No, you should not exceed the time limit during the IELTS speaking test. The test is timed to ensure all test-takers are evaluated equally, so practice speaking clearly and concisely within the given time. If you finish speaking before the time ends, pause and wait for the next question. If you run out of time before completing your answer, the examiner will move on to the next question. Use your time effectively and communicate clearly within the given time limits.

Q. What is the difference between IELTS speaking parts 2 and 3?

A. Part 2 of the IELTS speaking test is the cue card task, where the test-taker is given a topic to speak about for two minutes, followed by one or two related questions. Part 3 is a more in-depth discussion on the same topic, with more complex questions to test the test-taker's ability to express opinions and engage in abstract discussion. To prepare, practice speaking on various topics and develop strategies to communicate effectively in English.