Describe an aquatic animal.: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

You should say

Which animal was it?
What does it look like? When did you see it?
Why is it interesting?

27 unique answers with expert feedback

What do you think is the most interesting feature of turtles?

I believe the most interesting feature of turtles is their ability to retract into their shells for protection. This unique adaptation allows them to hide from predators and stay safe in their environment. Additionally, their slow movement on land contrasts with their graceful swimming in water, which is quite fascinating.

How do you feel about keeping aquatic animals as pets?

I think keeping aquatic animals can be a rewarding experience, as they can be beautiful and calming to watch. However, it's important to ensure that their habitat is well-maintained and that they are cared for properly. Responsible ownership is crucial to ensure their health and well-being.

Have you ever seen any other aquatic animals? Which ones?

Yes, I have seen various aquatic animals, including fish, dolphins, and even sharks at an aquarium. Each of these animals has unique characteristics and behaviors that are fascinating to observe. For instance, dolphins are incredibly intelligent and social, which makes them very engaging to watch.

Band 6-7

00:00

During one of my visits to the local aquarium, I came across a creature that is fabled in the tales Hare and Tortoise, known for its patience and winning the race through its key quality. It is a most marvellous creature in my perspective since its exoskeleton is made of a shell that is also its home. And this exoskeleton is said to be the hardest which even can withstand the test of time. This creature, especially living in the warm regions, feeds on the plankton. But on the saddened note, they are plagued by parasites that latch on to them and provide suffering. It needs to be cleaned by hand, which by far doesn't take place, which requires special supervisions and thus making the life of these creatures quite difficult. Also known for its long life, it can outlive a human and tells, in some cases, the stories of past.

Follow up questions

What do you think are the main threats to aquatic animals like the one you described?

The main threats to aquatic animals include pollution, habitat destruction, and climate change. Overfishing and the introduction of invasive species also pose significant risks. These factors can disrupt the delicate balance of marine ecosystems and endanger species that are already vulnerable.

How can we help protect aquatic animals in our environment?

We can help protect aquatic animals by reducing plastic usage, supporting conservation efforts, and participating in clean-up activities. Educating others about the importance of marine life and advocating for sustainable fishing practices can also make a significant impact on their preservation.

Why do you think people are fascinated by aquatic animals?

People are fascinated by aquatic animals due to their unique adaptations, behaviors, and the mysteries of underwater life. The diversity of species and their often vibrant colors and shapes capture our imagination, while their roles in ecosystems highlight the interconnectedness of life on Earth.

Band 6-7

00:00

There are many aquatic animals that I would like to discuss about, but I would like to talk specifically about fish. Fish specifically lives in water and it cannot live outside the water or pond, it breathes through gills. There are different types of fish like, fishes like saltwater fish, which specifically lives in ocean and freshwater fish, which specifically lives in rivers, ponds etc., which are mainly eaten and the tropical fish, which lives in warm water. These fishes are main source of income for India, not only India, for the world's ecosystem I feel fishes provide lot of nutritious food due to its fatty acids and it contains a lot of protein in it and they also help for ecosystem balance by balancing the aquatic ecosystem and they are also important economy for the government all over the world, they play a crucial role in gaining a revenue income more than 30% of world's revenue every year, so I feel fish plays a significant role in everybody's life.

Follow up questions

What are some popular types of fish consumed worldwide?

Some popular types of fish consumed worldwide include salmon, tuna, cod, and tilapia. These fish are favored for their taste and nutritional value. Salmon, for instance, is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, while tuna is known for its high protein content, making them staples in many diets.

How do fish contribute to the economy of coastal communities?

Fish contribute significantly to the economy of coastal communities through fishing industries, tourism, and aquaculture. Many people rely on fishing for their livelihoods, and seafood tourism attracts visitors, boosting local businesses. Additionally, aquaculture provides a sustainable way to meet fish demand.

What are the environmental impacts of overfishing?

Overfishing can lead to the depletion of fish populations, disrupting marine ecosystems and food chains. It can also result in the loss of biodiversity, as certain species become endangered. Sustainable fishing practices are essential to ensure the health of aquatic environments and maintain fish stocks.

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Band 6-7

00:00

I visited the Dubai aquarium back when I was in the 11th grade. It's like this huge aquarium right inside the middle of a mall where you can see all sorts of different aquatic species. But this was the first time that I was seeing a jellyfish and it really stood out to me as one of the most interesting and unique sea animals that I have seen. Much like its name, the jellyfish is just a blob of flesh. It has this top part which is shaped like a dome and it's sort of amorphous, it doesn't really hold its shape like jelly. And under that you have these really loose and flowy tentacles. So it just has a unique sort of floral vibe to it and it's really cute because of the way that it manoeuvres itself inside the water, it'll just use its blob-like body to push the water down. But my point is, just in the way of how it moves around and what it looks like, it feels very cute and unalarming. But one interesting fact about it is that it is actually one of the deadliest animals out there. The tentacles in the jellyfish are supposed to be really venomous and if it stings you, you will get really sharp shooting pain in your leg, sorry, wherever it bites you, wherever it stings you. And sometimes I believe it can be fatal as well, so just the juxtaposition of how cute it looks versus what kind of damage it can do was really interesting to me.

Follow up questions

What other aquatic animals have you seen in aquariums?

I've seen a variety of aquatic animals in different aquariums, including sharks, rays, and colorful tropical fish. Each has its own unique characteristics and behaviors. For instance, watching the graceful movements of rays gliding through the water is mesmerizing, and the vibrant colors of tropical fish are always captivating.

Why do you think jellyfish are often misunderstood?

Jellyfish are often seen as beautiful and harmless due to their appearance, but many people don't realize their potential danger. This misunderstanding can lead to people getting too close and risking a sting. It's important to educate others about their true nature to promote safety while appreciating their beauty.

How do you feel about conservation efforts for aquatic animals?

I believe conservation efforts are crucial for protecting aquatic animals and their habitats. Many species are threatened due to pollution, climate change, and overfishing. Supporting conservation initiatives can help preserve biodiversity and ensure that future generations can enjoy these amazing creatures.

Band 6-7

00:00

The aquatic animal which I want to talk about today is Octopus. Octopus is actually an aquatic animal where it lives deep in the ocean. It does have different colours. I particularly have seen an Octopus which is a red brownish colour and it does have 8 or more hands and it is like a tomb as its head and has 8 or more hands like that. It does have a succulent like holes through those hands where it actually helps him to catch his prey. I have seen him many times. I have eaten him. I believe it is an aquatic animal but still I have eaten it many times in restaurants. It is very tasty, very chewy. So an aquatic animal which I always adored is Octopus as I find it very interesting the way how it catches its prey. Actually it does initially, it does have a prey, it does have an ability to run out from its prey by putting out ink which may be dark blue or dark black. I have particularly seen it in black colour which black ink is being produced out of it. I believe his back and it is being put out to the water when a prey comes which make the prey a vision blur. So

Follow up questions

What other aquatic animals do you find interesting?

I find dolphins and jellyfish quite fascinating. Dolphins are known for their intelligence and playful behavior, while jellyfish have a unique and mesmerizing appearance. Each has its own way of surviving in the ocean, which makes them intriguing to learn about.

How do you think climate change affects aquatic animals?

Climate change significantly impacts aquatic animals by altering their habitats. Rising ocean temperatures can lead to coral bleaching, affecting species that rely on coral reefs. Additionally, pollution and overfishing threaten their survival, making it crucial to address these issues.

Have you ever seen an octopus in its natural habitat?

Yes, I have seen an octopus in its natural habitat during a diving trip. It was amazing to watch it blend into the surroundings and use its camouflage skills. Observing its behavior in the wild was much more impressive than seeing it in an aquarium.

Show all 27 answers

Cue 1:Which animal was it?

Begin by naming the aquatic animal clearly.
Share a brief personal connection or experience related to the animal.

Example

The aquatic animal I want to describe is the dolphin. I have always been fascinated by dolphins since I watched a documentary about them as a child.

Cue 2:What does it look like? When did you see it?

Provide a detailed description of the animal's physical features, such as size, color, and unique characteristics.
Mention the specific occasion when you saw the animal, whether in the wild or in an aquarium.

Example

Dolphins are sleek and streamlined, usually gray with lighter underbellies. They have a distinct dorsal fin and a playful smile. I first saw a dolphin during a family trip to Goa last summer when we went on a boat ride.

Cue 3:Why is it interesting?

Discuss the unique behaviors or traits of the animal that capture your interest.
Explain any personal experiences or facts that make the animal special to you.

Example

Dolphins are incredibly intelligent and social creatures. I find it interesting how they communicate with each other using clicks and whistles. During our boat ride, we were lucky enough to see a pod of dolphins leaping out of the water, which was a breathtaking experience.

Conclusion

Summarize your thoughts about the animal and its significance to you.
End with a personal reflection or a statement about the importance of aquatic life.

Example

In conclusion, dolphins are not only beautiful creatures but also symbolize the intelligence and playfulness of marine life. They remind me of the importance of protecting our oceans and the wonderful beings that inhabit them.

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 can make your answer unclear. Candidates often fail to provide specific details about the aquatic animal, which can lead to a lack of engagement from the examiner.

Tip

Use descriptive adjectives and specific details about the animal's appearance, behavior, and habitat to create a vivid picture.

2: Rushing Through Answers

Many candidates rush their responses, which can lead to incomplete answers. This may cause them to miss important cues and fail to fully explain their thoughts.

Tip

Take your time to think before speaking. Structure your answer by addressing each cue clearly and thoroughly.

Ignoring Personal Connection

Failing to share personal experiences or connections can make your answer less engaging. Candidates often miss the opportunity to explain why the animal is interesting to them.

Tip

Include a personal story or reason that highlights your interest in the animal, making your answer more relatable and memorable.

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Answer

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Answer

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