Describe an Unusual Holiday You Had: IELTS Cue Card

IELTS^TM CUE CARD

Describe an Unusual Holiday You Had: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

Updated on Nov 13, 2024, 05:04

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 an Unusual Holiday You Had.'

In this topic, you can discuss about an unexpected holiday you experienced. You may speak about the details of the holiday and the activities you did during the holiday and explain why the holiday is unusual.

Cue Card/Topic: Describe an Unusual Holiday You Had.

You should say

What holiday was it?
Who were you with?
What did you do?
Explain why it was unusual

Sample Answers

How to answer

Sample Answer 1

Introduction:

My most cherished holiday memory revolves around a uniquely unconventional Diwali celebration.
What made it exceptional wasn't just the festival of lights but a distinctive twist that transformed our festivities into a Green Diwali.

What holiday was it?

This was no ordinary Diwali; it was a Green Diwali.
Instead of the customary burst of fireworks, our celebrations deviated from tradition as we engaged in eco-conscious festivities, reflecting a conscious effort to align our joyous moments with environmental sustainability.

Who were you with?

In the company of my dearest friends and beloved family members, the joy of celebrating together took precedence over conventional revelry.
Accompanied by the warmth of close friends and the laughter of family members, the atmosphere was not only festive but genuinely heartwarming.

What did you do?

Our celebrations involved more than just the exchange of sweets and the lighting of diyas.
They encompassed organic feasts, tree planting, and crafting decorations from recycled materials.
The decision to make eco-friendly choices became a collective effort, transforming our Green Diwali into a shared commitment to environmental responsibility.

Explain why it was unusual.

The conscious decision to break conventional norms made this Diwali exceptional.
Our choice to prioritise eco-friendly practices over traditional extravagance was a deviation from the norm and a statement about our responsibility toward the planet.
It was this conscious effort to be consciously different that made this holiday stand out.

Conclusion:

In retrospect, this atypical Diwali celebration left an indelible mark on my memory. It wasn't just a festival but a reflection of our values, emphasising that joyous occasions can be coupled with environmental mindfulness.
The lasting memories of our Green Diwali continue to inspire me, reminding me of the importance of conscious choices even in moments of celebration.

Sample Answer 2

Introduction:

One of the most remarkable holidays etched in my memory is a spontaneous road trip taken with friends on Valentine's Day, deviating from the conventional celebration norms.

What holiday was it?

It happened on the typically romantic Valentine's Day, a time when couples traditionally engage in romantic dinners and memorable moments.

Who were you with?

In the spirit of turning away from the stereotypical Valentine's celebrations, I found myself in the company of a group of close friends who, like me, didn't have romantic plans for the day.

What did you do?

Rather than adhering to the expected romantic norms, we opted for a road trip.
Our journey unfolded as we explored nearby towns, indulging in local cuisine and visiting unconventional tourist spots.

Explain why it was unusual.

This holiday was exceptional because it defied the standard Valentine's Day script.
Instead of romance, we embraced adventure, creating memories through friendship and exploration.

Conclusion:

I left an indelible mark on this unique Valentine's Day, teaching me the beauty of breaking away from conventional celebrations and finding joy in unexpected experiences with friends.

Sample Answer 3

Introduction:

A remarkable holiday etched in my memory was an extraordinary visit to a beach that offered a unique blend of serenity and adventure.

What holiday was it?

This memorable holiday was a beach vacation that stood out due to its distinct charm and the exceptional experiences it presented.

Who were you with?

Accompanied by close family members, the beach holiday became a shared adventure filled with laughter, bonding, and creating lasting memories against the sun-kissed shores.

What did you do?

Rather than following the typical beach itinerary, we ventured into less-explored areas, discovering hidden coves, engaging in water sports, and even participating in a local beach cleanup initiative.

Explain why it was unusual.

This vacation deviated from the ordinary by combining relaxation with exploration, offering a unique blend of environmental consciousness, thrilling activities, and a genuine connection with the local community.

Conclusion:

This unconventional beach holiday was a perfect harmony of relaxation and adventure, making it stand out as a truly remarkable and unusual vacation experience.

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:

Begin with an engaging introduction.
Use descriptive language to capture the reader's attention.
Vocabulary: You can use words like- "Unusual," "distinctive twist," "memorable," and "extraordinary."

An extraordinary holiday etched vividly in my memory was an offbeat journey to the historic city of Jaipur, breaking the conventional norms of typical vacations.”

What holiday was it?

Provide details about the specific holiday.
Clearly state the holiday and emphasise its uniqueness.
Vocabulary: You may use words like "Eco-friendly," "Green Diwali," or "distinctive."

“This unique holiday was a cultural exploration of Jaipur, known as the Pink City, renowned for its rich history, vibrant architecture, and distinct traditions.”

Who were you with?

Share information about the people you were with.
Language: Describe the company you had using expressive language.
Vocabulary: Include words like "Accompanied," "close friends," "family members," and "intrigued."

“Joined by close friends who shared a mutual interest in history and culture, the holiday evolved into an immersive experience filled with exploration, learning, and camaraderie.”

What did you do?

Describe the activities and events during the holiday.
Language: Narrate the activities using vivid language.
Vocabulary: Use words like "Organic feasts," "tree planting," "crafting decorations," and "recycled materials."

“Rather than opting for mainstream tourist spots, we delved into the lesser-known alleys, visited local markets, interacted with artisans, and attended cultural events, immersing ourselves in the city's authentic charm.”

Explain why it was unusual.

Elaborate on what made this holiday stand out.
Language: Clarify what made the holiday stand out.
Vocabulary: Include words like "Unusual," "consciously different," and "environmentally friendly."

“This holiday stood out for its departure from the conventional sightseeing checklist. It stressed a deeper understanding of the local culture, forging connections with residents, and embracing the city's unique atmosphere.”

Conclusion:

Summarise the key points and express the lasting impact of the unusual holiday.
Language: Summarise the impact of the unusual holiday using thoughtful language.
Vocabulary: Choose words that express lasting impressions and reflection, like "Indelible mark," "lasting memories," and "reflecting on."

“In retrospect, this unconventional Jaipur holiday was a testament to the richness of cultural exploration, creating lasting memories that transcended the typical tourist experience.”

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: In what ways did an unusual holiday challenge your expectations or perceptions about travel?

Answer 1: An unusual holiday challenged my expectations by breaking away from conventional tourist destinations. It made me realise that the most fulfilling experiences often come from exploring offbeat places. The challenges preconceived notions about travel, emphasising there's more to discover beyond popular destinations.

Answer 2: On the contrary, an unusual holiday reinforced my belief in sticking to well-known destinations. The challenges I faced during the unusual holiday, such as language barriers and lack of amenities, made me appreciate the convenience and familiarity of more popular travel spots. It showed me the importance of predictability and comfort in a vacation.

Q2: How can the tourism industry encourage more people to explore unique and offbeat destinations?

Answer 1: The tourism industry can encourage the exploration of unique destinations by promoting them as hidden gems with distinct cultural experiences. Offering unique packages and discounts and highlighting the authenticity of these places can attract travellers seeking something different. Social media campaigns showcasing the beauty of offbeat locations also generate curiosity and interest among potential tourists.

Answer 2: There may be more effective strategies for the tourism industry than Promising unique destinations. Many travellers prefer well-known places for their safety, amenities, and ease of navigation. Instead, enhancing infrastructure and amenities in popular tourist spots could attract more people, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience without the uncertainties associated with offbeat locations.

Q3: How do unusual holidays contribute to personal growth and understanding of different cultures?

Answer 1: Unusual holidays contribute significantly to personal growth by exposing individuals to diverse cultures and perspectives. Immersing oneself in unfamiliar environments fosters adaptability, tolerance, and a broader worldview. These experiences challenge preconceptions, encouraging individuals to embrace differences and facilitating personal development.

Answer 2: Some argue that unusual holidays may contribute little to personal growth. While they offer unique experiences, the impact on personal development might be limited compared to structured educational or professional opportunities. Some individuals find comfort and growth in more conventional settings that provide clear learning objectives and skill development.

Q4: Would You Recommend Your Holiday To Others? Why Or Why Not?

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FAQs

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

A. To score well in the cue card section, remember to use a range of vocabulary, including idiomatic expressions and phrasal verbs. You should also try to use complex sentence structures, such as compound and complex sentences. It's also important to speak fluently and with good pronunciation and to use appropriate stress and intonation to convey meaning effectively. Finally, address the prompt thoroughly and provide relevant examples or details to support your answer.

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

A. If you need help understanding the cue card topic, ask the examiner to clarify it. You can also take a few seconds to think about the topic and develop related ideas or examples. If unsure, you can use general phrases or expressions to discuss the topic until you feel more comfortable.

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

A. 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 formal setting.

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

A. 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. Is the IELTS speaking test easy?

A. The IELTS speaking test can be challenging for many test-takers, as it requires fluency and accuracy in English and the ability to communicate effectively and confidently. However, with adequate preparation and practice, many individuals can achieve their desired score on the speaking test. It's important to remember that everyone's experience may vary, and what may be easy or difficult for one person may be different for another.

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

A. 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 essential to prepare for the specific module you will be taking.

Q. Is eye contact important in IELTS speaking?

A. Eye contact is essential to 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?

A. 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?

A. 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.

Q. What is the lowest score in IELTS speaking?

A. The lowest possible score in IELTS Speaking is 0. However, this score is extremely rare as it indicates that the candidate did not attempt to answer any of the questions or was utterly 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. Can I change the topic for speaking in IELTS?

A. 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.

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