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IELTSTM CUE CARD

Describe a Useful Object in Your Home That You Can’t Live Without: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

Updated on Nov 12, 2024, 10:30

Overview

IELTS Speaking is a common module in the IELTS Academic and General Training tests. The 3-parts remain the same in both tests. The cue card round is filled with simple topics such as personal interests, experiences, environmental and societal issues, and general knowledge. One of the most commonly asked topics is, 'Describe a Useful Object in Your Home That You Can’t Live Without.'
 

In this topic, you can discuss the useful object and how often you use it. You may also discuss about how to use it, and lastly, you can explain why you can’t live without it.

 

Cue Card/Topic:Describe a Useful Object in Your Home That You Can’t Live Without.

You should say

  • What is it?
  • How often do you use it?
  • How do you use it?
  • Explain why you can’t live without it.
Sample Answer 1

Introduction
 

  • I can't live without my trusty coffee maker. It is immensely important in my daily life, as it kickstarts my mornings and keeps me energised throughout the day.
     

What is it?
 

  • My coffee maker is a sleek, compact machine with a black stainless steel exterior. It features a programmable timer, a transparent water reservoir, and a removable drip tray. 
  • Its compact size allows it to fit perfectly on my kitchen countertop without taking up too much space.
     

How often do you use it?
 

  • I use my coffee maker religiously every morning without fail. 
  • It's the first thing I reach for when I wake up, brewing a fresh pot of coffee to start my day on the right note. 
  • Additionally, I often brew another cup in the afternoon to combat the midday slump and stay productive.
     

How do you use it?
 

  • Using my coffee maker is straightforward. I fill the reservoir with fresh water, add ground coffee to the filter basket, and press the brew button. 
  • Within minutes, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills my kitchen, signalling that my perfect cup is ready to be enjoyed. 
  • I often customise my coffee with different blends and flavours, experimenting with various brewing techniques to achieve the perfect balance of richness and flavour.
     

Explain why you can’t live without it
 

  • I can't imagine my life without my coffee maker because it's more than just a kitchen appliance—a daily ritual setting the tone for my entire day. 
  • The aroma of freshly brewed coffee awakens my senses and brings comfort and familiarity. 
  • It's my go-to source of motivation and energy, helping me tackle the day's challenges enthusiastically. 
  • Whether I'm sipping a steaming mug of coffee while catching up on emails or enjoying a quiet moment of reflection, my coffee maker is an indispensable companion that enhances every aspect of my life.
     

Conclusion
 

  • My coffee maker holds a special place in my heart and home, serving as a constant source of comfort and convenience. 
  • Its ability to brew the perfect cup of coffee tailored to my preferences makes it an essential part of my daily routine. 
  • Without it, my mornings would feel incomplete, and my days would lack the same level of warmth and satisfaction.
Sample Answer 2

Introduction
 

  • My smartphone is an indispensable object in my home that I can't live without. 
  • It is crucial in keeping me connected, organised, and entertained throughout the day.
     

What is it?
 

  • My smartphone is a sleek and modern device with a vibrant touchscreen display. 
  • It features advanced capabilities such as internet connectivity, a high-quality camera, and various applications tailored to various needs.
     

How often do you use it?
 

  • I use my smartphone constantly throughout the day, from when I wake up to when I go to bed. 
  • It serves as my alarm clock in the morning, allowing me to check the news, emails, and social media updates while having breakfast. 
  • I rely on it daily for communication, productivity tasks, entertainment, and fitness tracking.
     

How do you use it?
 

  • My smartphone serves multiple purposes in my daily life. 
  • I use it to stay connected with friends and family through calls, text messages, and social media platforms. 
  • Its calendar and reminder feature helps me stay organised and efficiently manage my schedule and appointments. 
  • Additionally, I use it to capture photos and videos of memorable moments, browse the internet for information and entertainment, and access various productivity apps for work and personal projects.
     

Explain why you can’t live without it
 

  • I consider my smartphone indispensable because it has seamlessly integrated into almost every aspect of my life. 
  • It serves as my primary means of communication, information, and entertainment, keeping me connected and informed regardless of my location. 
  • Its versatility and convenience have made it an essential tool for navigating the modern world. I rely on it daily to stay productive, organised, and connected.
     

Conclusion
 

  • My smartphone is a vital part of my daily routine, providing essential tools and services that enhance my productivity, communication, and overall quality of life. 
  • Its multifunctional capabilities and convenience make it irreplaceable, and I can't imagine navigating the complexities of modern life without it.
Sample Answer 3

Introduction
 

  • My electric kettle is a crucial object in my home that I cannot imagine living without. 
  • This device has become essential to my daily routine, offering convenience and efficiency in preparing hot beverages.
     

What is it?
 

  • My electric kettle is a compact and sleek appliance designed for heating water rapidly. 
  • It features a sturdy handle, a hinged lid for easy filling, and a power switch with indicator lights. 
  • Its simple yet functional design makes it user-friendly for anyone in the household.
     

How often do you use it?
 

  • I use my electric kettle multiple times daily, particularly in the morning and evening. 
  • It is my go-to appliance for brewing tea, coffee, or instant noodles, providing a quick and hassle-free way to prepare hot beverages or snacks whenever needed.
     

How do you use it?
 

  • Using the electric kettle is straightforward: I simply fill it with water, plug it into a power outlet, and switch it on. 
  • The water reaches boiling point within minutes, indicated by the automatic shut-off feature or the boiling indicator light. 
  • I then pour the hot water into my mug or bowl, add my desired ingredients, and enjoy my favourite beverage or snack.
     

Explain why you can’t live without it
 

  • My electric kettle is indispensable for its convenience, efficiency, and versatility. 
  • It saves me valuable time and effort, especially during busy mornings or late-night study sessions when I need a quick pick-me-up. Its compact size and portability make it suitable for use in various settings, whether at home, in the office, or travelling.
     

Conclusion
 

  • My electric kettle has become an indispensable appliance in my home. 
  • It gives me convenience, efficiency, and versatility in preparing hot beverages and snacks. 
  • Its simplicity of use and reliability have made it an essential part of my daily routine, and I cannot imagine life without it.

Once part 2 begins, you will be handed a cue card and 4 questions related to it. In our case, the cue card will look like this: 
 

The ideal way to answer cue card prompts is to break them into digestible sections. Think of it this way: no matter your topic, there is always an introduction, key highlights, and a conclusion. 
 

Considering that, here's how we'll break our topic down. 
 

Introduction
 

  • Briefly introduce the object you will be talking about.
  • Mention its importance in your daily life.
“In my household, an indispensable object is our microwave oven. Its presence is fundamental to our daily activities, particularly in the kitchen, where it serves multiple purposes easily and efficiently.”

What is it?

 

  • Describe the object in detail.
  • Provide information about its size, shape, and any unique features.
“Our microwave oven is a modern kitchen appliance designed for heating, cooking, and defrosting food quickly and conveniently. It features a digital control panel, a spacious interior, and various cooking settings to accommodate different types of dishes.”

How often do you use it?
 

  • Explain how frequently you use the object.
  • Mention specific instances or situations when you use it the most.
“We use our microwave oven several times a day, mainly for heating leftovers, preparing quick meals, and defrosting frozen items. Its versatility allows us to streamline our cooking process and save time, especially during hectic weekdays when we have limited time for meal preparation.”

How do you use it?
 

  • Describe the specific function or purpose of the object.
  • Provide examples of using it in your daily routine or specific tasks.
“Using the microwave oven is simple: place the food or beverage inside, set the desired cooking time or select a preset function, and press start. The microwave emits electromagnetic waves that penetrate the food and generate heat, resulting in rapid heating or cooking. Once the cooking cycle is complete, a beep signal alerts us, and we carefully remove the food using oven mitts or a heat-safe dish.”

Explain why you can’t live without it:
 

  • Discuss the importance of the object in your life.
  • Explain how it enhances your daily activities or makes your life easier.
  • Share any personal anecdotes or experiences related to the object.
“We consider our microwave oven indispensable due to its convenience, efficiency, and versatility. It allows us to quickly and easily prepare meals, snacks, and beverages, even when short on time or energy. Its ability to heat food evenly and defrost items rapidly has simplified our kitchen routines and enhanced our overall cooking experience.”

Conclusion
 

  • Summarise the object's significance in your life and reiterate why you consider it indispensable.
“Our microwave oven is a crucial component of our household, offering convenience, efficiency, and versatility in the kitchen. Its reliable performance and user-friendly features have made it indispensable to our daily lives, and we cannot imagine navigating our kitchen without it.”

Follow-Up Questions

Below are some sample questions and possible answers. Once again, we recommend that you only take the inspiration from the answers below and add your twist to it! 

 

Q1. Is it healthy to get attached to an object?

Answer 1: Attachment to an object can positively and negatively affect one's well-being. Some may argue that attachment to sentimental objects fosters emotional connections and provides comfort and security, especially in times of stress or loneliness. However, excessive attachment may lead to dependency and hinder personal growth and resilience, as individuals may rely too heavily on material possessions for happiness and fulfilment.
 

Answer 2: Conversely, some may view attachment to objects as unhealthy, as it can detract from meaningful human connections and experiences. Excessive attachment to material possessions may foster a sense of materialism and consumerism, promoting superficial values over deeper emotional connections. Additionally, relying too heavily on objects for emotional support may inhibit individuals from developing healthy coping mechanisms and interpersonal relationships, ultimately impeding personal growth and well-being.

Q2. What are the benefits of the Internet at home?

Answer 1: The Internet offers numerous benefits for individuals and families at home. It provides access to a wealth of information, allowing users to learn new skills, access educational resources, and stay updated on current events. Additionally, it facilitates communication and connectivity, enabling people to stay in touch with friends and family through email, social media, and video calls. Moreover, the Internet offers entertainment options such as streaming services, online gaming, and digital content, enhancing leisure and relaxation at home.
 

Answer 2: However, excessive reliance on the Internet at home may have negative consequences. Spending too much time online can lead to decreased physical activity and sedentary behaviour, contributing to health issues such as obesity and poor posture. Moreover, excessive screen time may disrupt sleep patterns and negatively impact mental well-being, leading to feelings of anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Additionally, the Internet poses risks such as exposure to inappropriate content, online harassment, and privacy concerns, which may undermine the safety and security of individuals and families.

Q3. What are the benefits of using home appliances?

Answer 1: Home appliances offer numerous benefits for households in India. They help simplify household chores and tasks, saving time and effort for individuals and families. For example, appliances like washing machines, dishwashers, and vacuum cleaners automate cleaning tasks, allowing users to maintain a clean and hygienic living environment more efficiently. Appliances such as refrigerators and microwaves facilitate food storage and preparation, making storing perishable items and cooking meals at home easier.
 

Answer 2: However, reliance on home appliances may also have drawbacks. Excessive use of energy-intensive appliances can contribute to high electricity consumption and utility bills, burdening households, especially those with limited income. Moreover, overusing certain appliances, such as air conditioners and heaters, can have negative environmental impacts, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. Additionally, dependence on appliances for everyday tasks may reduce manual dexterity and self-sufficiency, leading to a loss of traditional skills and knowledge in some communities.

Q4. Do household appliances make people lazy?

Answer 1: Household appliances can sometimes contribute to a sedentary lifestyle by automating tasks that would otherwise require physical effort. For example, using a dishwasher instead of handwashing dishes or a vacuum cleaner instead of sweeping manually may reduce opportunities for physical activity. Over time, excessive reliance on appliances for everyday tasks may decrease overall physical activity levels, potentially contributing to a more sedentary lifestyle and associated health risks such as obesity and cardiovascular diseases.
 

Answer 2: However, household appliances also provide convenience and efficiency, enabling individuals to complete tasks more quickly and effectively. Rather than making people lazy, these appliances allow individuals to allocate their time and energy more efficiently, freeing up time for other activities such as work, hobbies, or spending quality time with family and friends. Moreover, modern appliances often incorporate advanced features and technologies that promote convenience and comfort, enhancing users' overall quality of life. 

FAQs

Q. Is the IELTS speaking test easy?

Ans. The IELTS speaking test challenges many candidates due to its requirements for fluency, accuracy, and confidence in English communication. Nevertheless, individuals can attain their target scores through diligent preparation and practice. It's essential to recognise that experiences differ among test-takers, and what proves challenging for one person may not be the same for another.

Q. What vital language elements should I remember while attempting the cue card section?

Ans. Use different words and phrases, including idioms and phrasal verbs, to do well in the cue card section. Try using long and complicated sentences, and speak fluently with clear pronunciation. Explain your answer well and give examples to support your ideas.

Q. What can I do if I need help understanding the cue card topic?

Ans. If you need help understanding the cue card topic, ask the examiner to explain it again. Take some time to think about the topic and come up with ideas to talk about. If you're still unsure, you can talk about general things related to the topic until you feel more confident. 

Q. Can I change the topic for speaking in IELTS?

Ans. No, you cannot change the topic in IELTS Speaking. The examiner will provide you with a topic or a cue card, and you will have to speak about that topic. However, you are free to interpret the topic in your own way and bring your experiences and opinions to make your speech more interesting and engaging. 

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

Ans. No, you should avoid using informal language during your cue card task. The cue card task is a formal speaking test, so you should use formal language throughout the test. Avoid using slang, contractions, or colloquial expressions, and instead use more formal vocabulary and sentence structures. This will help you demonstrate your language skills and show that you can communicate effectively in a traditional setting.

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

Ans. Some common cue card topics in the IELTS speaking test include personal experiences, such as describing a memorable event or a favourite holiday destination, and more general topics related to society, education, technology, and culture. Other common topics may include describing a person you admire, discussing a current issue or problem, or expressing your opinion on a particular topic.

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

Ans. The speaking test is structured the same for both IELTS Academic and General Training modules. However, the content may vary slightly depending on the module you are taking. The skills required to do well on both exams are similar, so it's important to prepare for the specific module you will be taking.

Q. What is the lowest score in IELTS speaking?

Ans. The lowest possible score in IELTS Speaking is 0. However, this score is infrequent as it indicates that the candidate did not attempt to answer any of the questions or was completely silent throughout the test. The lowest score a candidate can realistically receive is 1, implying that they have made some effort to speak. Still, their responses could be more relevant to the questions asked.

Q. Is eye contact important in IELTS speaking?

Ans. Eye contact is an important aspect of effective communication and can also play a role in the IELTS speaking test. Making eye contact with the examiner during your speaking test can demonstrate confidence and engagement and help you connect with your audience. That being said, it's important to remember that you shouldn't force yourself to make eye contact if it makes you uncomfortable or distracts you from your speaking performance. 

Q. What are common mistakes in IELTS speaking?

Ans. Common mistakes in IELTS speaking include lack of preparation, nervousness, using memorised answers, not answering the question, not speaking enough, and poor pronunciation.

Q. Which part is the most important in IELTS speaking?

Ans. All parts of the IELTS speaking section are essential, but the third part is generally considered the most challenging and carries the most weight in scoring. In this part, test-takers must express and defend their opinions on a given topic, using appropriate vocabulary and grammar structures.

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