Describe something you own that you want to replace?: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

You should say

What it is
Where it is
How you got it
Explain why you want to replace it.

21 unique answers with expert feedback

What features do you look for in a new study table?

When looking for a new study table, I would prioritize durability and functionality. I want a table that can withstand daily use, has enough space for my books and laptop, and ideally has adjustable height options. Additionally, I would like it to have a modern design that fits my room's aesthetics.

How do you think a new study table would improve your study habits?

A new study table would provide a more comfortable and organized space for studying. With a better design, I could minimize distractions and have all my materials within reach. This could lead to increased focus and productivity, making my study sessions more effective.

Do you think sentimental value affects your decision to replace items?

Yes, sentimental value plays a significant role in my decision-making. Even though my current table has some wear and tear, it holds memories of my time studying and spending time with my dad. I would consider replacing it carefully, perhaps keeping some parts or finding a similar style that evokes those memories.

Band 6-7

00:00

So, I always ask myself, is there anything that I want to replace in my life or get something better? And there is one thing and it's a necklace. It's like a butterfly with a silver chain and it was given by one of my lovers. And he is my man in this world and I miss him a lot. And the necklace is still in my cupboard. It's kept there. And I always think that I want to replace it or need to move on from it. It's very hard for me to let go and not think about him. And whenever I see the necklace in my cupboard, all the memories, all the good deeds, everything given by that man, it just flashes in my mind. And it just screams that I love him and I don't want to let him go and stuff. But the more I see the necklace, the more I realize that I want to change myself. I want to be capable of doing something and I need to forgive everything and forget everything. And then later on I realize that at some point I won't be able to move on, but I need to. That's why I think there is this necklace that I want to replace by. And I do miss him sometimes, but the necklace just reminds me of him. And sometimes I get too depressed about it and not able to do stuff. But later on I feel that maybe I should do it. Maybe I should move on for him and for me, for our better lives. But yeah, that's the one thing I want to replace. And there is one more thing I would like to replace is this broken doll. It is a written doll, it's broken. It was given by my auntie. And I want to replace it because it was...

Follow up questions

Why do you think it's difficult to let go of sentimental items?

Sentimental items often hold deep emotional connections and memories. Letting go can feel like losing a part of ourselves or the past. It's a struggle between cherishing those memories and moving forward in life.

How do you think replacing items can help in moving on?

Replacing items can symbolize a fresh start and help in the healing process. It allows individuals to create new memories and associations, making it easier to let go of the past and embrace new experiences.

What other items do you think people often find hard to replace?

People often find it hard to replace gifts from loved ones, family heirlooms, or items tied to significant life events. These objects carry emotional weight and memories that can be difficult to part with.

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Band 6-7

00:00

I possess a pair of baggy pants which are green in color. I had a chance to buy these on a recent market visit. It turned out to be extremely, you know, extremely baggy and did not really end up fitting me. To top it, my friend who just visited me recently mentioned the pants and made fun of me since I had bought those. The pants are extremely loose and they make me look like an elephant. After my friend passed adverse comments on my pants, I have started to reconsider my purchase and I would like to return it to the market I bought it from and in exchange I'm looking to buy a size smaller or else I would probably buy something else. There are many varieties of pants available in any case so I think I will pick and choose from any of those. However, I might reconsider the decision to return the pants if I get a chance.

Follow up questions

What qualities do you look for when buying new clothes?

When buying new clothes, I look for comfort, fit, and style. I prefer clothes that are not only fashionable but also make me feel good when I wear them. Additionally, I consider the fabric quality and how easy it is to maintain.

How do you usually decide whether to keep or return an item?

I usually decide to keep or return an item based on how well it fits, how often I think I will wear it, and whether I feel confident in it. If I have doubts about any of these factors, I lean towards returning it.

Have you ever regretted a purchase? What happened?

Yes, I have regretted purchases before, especially when I bought something on impulse. For instance, I once bought a jacket that looked great in the store but turned out to be uncomfortable. I ended up rarely wearing it and eventually donated it.

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Band 6-7

00:00

Actually, currently I am using a bike called Tata Motors, I have bought more than 5 years back that bike, but recently it was not performing well, it has so much of interior damage and motor damage and also tires are too much of floppy and not working well, so I am interested in buying a new bike for my future, it's like I want to buy a bike which is suitable to the present roads, a lot of improvement in petrol consumption also and furthermore I need a budgetable bike which I can afford, I can also pay, I can buy an installment because I am currently getting a petrol less amount, so I need to buy bike in EMI, there are so many bikes I recently seen in my near by showroom, I love the most bike was that AXS 125 which was presented by CBK, it was so much of comfortable and comfortable for me, so I prefer that bike mostly and it's just like so comfortable for me and I really want to buy that bike, but in future I will think about it, if I am ready or not, I want to see it.

Follow up questions

What features do you look for in a new bike?

I look for features like fuel efficiency, comfort, and reliability. A good suspension system and modern design are also important. Additionally, I want a bike that has good safety features and is easy to maintain.

How do you plan to finance your new bike?

I plan to finance my new bike through an EMI option. This way, I can manage my budget better and make monthly payments instead of paying the full amount upfront. I will also compare different financing options to find the best deal.

Have you considered any other brands or models?

Yes, I have considered other brands like Honda and Yamaha. They have models that are known for their durability and performance. However, the AXS 125 stands out to me because of its comfort and features that suit my needs.

Band 6-7

00:00

so the thing I want to replace is a bike so this this bike is manufactured by the Royal Enfield bike manufacturing company this is a very popular bike among Europe and Indian residents so this is right now it is placed in my backyard among my multiple cars so this is the color of it is red color which is a famous one among the Royal Enfield bullets bullet bikes so I have got I've got this bike as a gift from my father on my birthday I was very much elated and I was drowned in delight while receiving this gift because this is one of my cherished gifts ever and this is forever in the imbibed into my memory so the reason I want to replace is though it is one of my favorite gifts it started showcasing different kinds of problems in its engine like there is a problem with its mileage the petrol deserts itself within few hours of working a time period additionally there is also a problem of it while changing gears like whenever you shift from first to second gear it would struck itself between the neutral stand which creates a problem while riding it in the traffic or and also though I don't want to replace it I have started looking up at different service centers to rectify this problem but I couldn't find any solution

Follow up questions

What features do you look for in a new bike?

When looking for a new bike, I prioritize reliability, fuel efficiency, and comfort. I also consider the design and brand reputation. A bike that has good reviews for performance and maintenance is essential, as I want to avoid the issues I've faced with my current bike.

How do you feel about the memories associated with your old bike?

The memories tied to my old bike are very special to me. It was a gift from my father, and it represents a significant moment in my life. While I want to replace it due to its issues, I will always cherish the experiences and joy it brought me over the years.

Have you considered any specific models to replace your bike?

Yes, I've been researching various models that are known for their durability and performance. Brands like Honda and Yamaha have caught my attention, especially models that are praised for their smooth gear transitions and fuel efficiency. I want to ensure my next bike is a reliable choice.

Show all 21 answers

Cue 1:What it is

Begin by clearly identifying the item you want to replace.
Provide a brief description of its features and condition.

Example

The item I want to replace is my old smartphone. It's a basic model that I've been using for over four years now. While it still functions, the battery life has significantly decreased, and it often lags when I try to use apps.

Cue 2:Where it is

Mention where you usually keep this item.
Describe the significance of its location in your daily life.

Example

I keep my smartphone on my bedside table when I’m at home. It’s the first thing I check in the morning and the last thing I look at before going to sleep. It’s essential for my daily communication and staying updated.

Cue 3:How you got it

Share the story of how you acquired this item.
Include details about any special memories or occasions related to it.

Example

I got this smartphone as a gift from my parents on my birthday. It was a special moment for me because it was my first smartphone, and I felt very excited to finally have one. I remember how thrilled I was to explore all its features.

Cue 4:Explain why you want to replace it

Discuss the reasons for wanting to replace the item, focusing on its limitations.
Mention any specific features you are looking for in a new item.

Example

I want to replace my smartphone because it can no longer keep up with my needs. The camera quality is poor, and I often miss capturing important moments. I’m looking for a new phone with a better camera, longer battery life, and faster processing speed to enhance my daily experience.

Conclusion

Summarize your feelings about the item you want to replace.
Express your anticipation for the new item you plan to get.

Example

In conclusion, while my old smartphone has served me well, it’s time for an upgrade. I’m excited about the prospect of getting a new phone that will not only meet my current needs but also make my daily life more enjoyable.

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: Being Vague About the Item

Candidates often provide unclear descriptions of the item they want to replace. This can lead to confusion and a lack of detail in their response.

Tip

Be specific about the item. Use descriptive words to explain what it is and its features to engage the listener.

2: Neglecting the 'How You Got It' Part

Many candidates skip explaining how they acquired the item, which can make their answer feel incomplete and less personal.

Tip

Include a brief story or context about how you got the item. This adds depth and makes your response more interesting.

Focusing Too Much on Negatives

Some candidates concentrate only on the negative aspects of the item they want to replace, which can make their answer sound unbalanced.

Tip

While explaining why you want to replace it, also mention any positive experiences you had with the item to create a well-rounded response.

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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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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

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Anonymous student Band 6.5

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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

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Anonymous student Band 7

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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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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.