leap-scholar-logo
hamburger-menu
cue_card_backround_image_mobile

IELTSTM CUE CARD

Describe the Best Gift You Have Received: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

Updated on Sep 12, 2024, 09:39

Overview

In the IELTS Speaking test, the cue card section requires you to speak about a specific topic for 1-2 minutes. Each cue card includes a prompt with key points to address, allowing you to demonstrate your speaking skills in a structured manner. These topics are designed to evaluate your ability to organise your thoughts and communicate clearly.
 

For the topic "Describe the Best Gift You Have Received," you will be asked to talk about a memorable gift you’ve received and explain why it stands out. This could involve discussing the occasion, the significance of the gift, and the impact it had on you. On this page, we’ll explore sample answers and tips to help you craft a compelling response for this cue card topic.

 

Cue Card/Topic: Describe the Best Gift You Have Received

You should say

  • What was the gift?
  • Who gave it to you?
  • When did you receive it?
  • Explain why it is the best gift you have ever received.
Sample Answer 1

Introduction (Covers: What was the gift?)

 

  • The best gift I have ever received is a beautifully crafted leather journal. It was a thoughtful present that immediately stood out due to its elegant design and personal touch.
  • My best friend, who knows my love for writing and keeping journals, gave me this special gift on my birthday. The journal’s quality and the personalised engraving made it particularly memorable.
  • This journal remains my favourite gift because it aligns perfectly with my interests and has been both functional and sentimental.

 

Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest (Covers: Who gave it to you?)

 

  • My friend chose this journal because she knew I had a passion for journaling and creative writing. The leather cover was embossed with my initials, making it even more personal and unique.
  • When I received the journal, I was thrilled and touched by the thoughtfulness of the gift. It wasn’t just a notebook but a reflection of my interests and personality.
  • I appreciate the time and effort my friend put into selecting such a meaningful gift, which made it all the more special to me.

 

Key Highlights (Covers: When did you receive it?)

 

  • I received this journal on my birthday last year, and it was the highlight of the evening. The moment I opened the gift, I was struck by its beauty and the care with which it had been chosen.
  • The journal’s high-quality leather and custom engraving stood out as exceptional features. It was evident that a lot of thought had gone into choosing and personalising this gift.
  • This gift has been a constant companion in my daily life, used for everything from jotting down ideas to planning projects, further cementing its importance.

 

Conclusion (Covers: Explain why it is the best gift you have ever received)

 

  • This journal is the best gift I’ve ever received because it combines practicality with personal significance. It’s not just a writing tool but a cherished keepsake that reminds me of my friend’s thoughtfulness.
  • The gift has inspired me to continue journaling and reflecting on my experiences. It’s a reminder of the meaningful connections we share and the care that goes into truly special presents.
  • This journal has not only been useful but also deeply meaningful, providing both inspiration and a lasting connection to a dear friend.
Sample Answer 2

Introduction (Covers: What was the gift?)

 

  • The best gift I have ever received is a customised photo album. It was an incredibly heartfelt present that captured many cherished memories.
  • My partner gave me this photo album for our anniversary. The personalised touches and the effort put into selecting the photos made it particularly special.
  • This album is significant to me because it beautifully preserves our shared moments and reflects the thoughtfulness behind the gift.

 

Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest (Covers: Who gave it to you?)

 

  • My partner created this photo album because they wanted to celebrate our relationship and the milestones we’ve shared. The album was filled with pictures from various events and trips we had together.
  • When I received it, I was deeply moved by the personalisation and the effort that went into curating the photos. It was a gift that spoke volumes about our relationship.
  • I appreciate how the album captures our journey and how it reflects my partner’s understanding of what is meaningful to me.

 

Key Highlights (Covers: When did you receive it?)

 

  • I received this photo album on our anniversary last year. It was an unexpected and delightful surprise that made the occasion even more memorable.
  • The album’s thoughtful arrangement of photos and the accompanying handwritten notes made it a standout gift. It was clear that a lot of care had gone into creating it.
  • Since then, the album has become a treasured keepsake that I often revisit to relive those special memories.

 

Conclusion (Covers: Explain why it is the best gift you have ever received)

 

  • This photo album is the best gift I’ve ever received because it holds sentimental value and captures the essence of our relationship. It’s a constant reminder of the love and care shared.
  • The gift has enriched my appreciation for our experiences together and the effort my partner put into making it. It’s more than just a collection of photos; it’s a celebration of our journey.
  • In summary, this photo album stands out as the best gift due to its emotional significance and the way it has preserved our most cherished memories.
Sample Answer 3

Introduction (Covers: What was the gift?)

 

  • The best gift I have ever received is a beautiful handcrafted leather briefcase. It was a highly practical and stylish present that I cherish deeply.
  • My mentor gave me this briefcase upon my graduation, recognising my new professional journey. The craftsmanship and functionality of the briefcase made it a standout gift.
  • This briefcase is significant to me because it represents both a milestone in my career and the thoughtful gesture of my mentor.

 

Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest (Covers: Who gave it to you?)

 

  • My mentors chose this briefcase because they knew I would be starting a new job and needed something both professional and durable. The briefcase’s elegant design and quality leather fit perfectly with my style.
  • When I received the briefcase, I was genuinely impressed by its quality and the thought behind the gift. It was evident that my mentor had considered both my needs and my personal taste.
  • I value this gift not just for its practicality but for the support and encouragement it symbolises from someone who has significantly impacted my career.

 

Key Highlights (Covers: When did you receive it?)

 

  • I received the briefcase on the day of my graduation, which made it even more memorable. It was a perfect way to celebrate the completion of my studies and the start of my professional journey.
  • The briefcase’s high-quality leather and thoughtful design, including multiple compartments for organisation, were features that made it an exceptional gift.
  • Since receiving it, the briefcase has been my constant companion in professional settings, reflecting its practical value and the sentiment behind it.

 

Conclusion (Covers: Explain why it is the best gift you have ever received)

 

  • This briefcase is the best gift I’ve ever received because it combines functionality with a personal touch, marking an important transition in my life. It’s a daily reminder of my mentor’s belief in my potential.
  • The gift has been invaluable in my professional life, providing both utility and a sense of pride. It’s not just a briefcase but a symbol of achievement and support.
  • Overall, this briefcase stands out as the best gift due to its practicality, the thoughtfulness behind it, and the significant role it has played in my career.
     

Also Read:

 

Knowing how to effectively answer cue card topics is crucial for success in the IELTS Speaking test. By practising structured responses, you can ensure you cover all necessary points within the 1-2 minute timeframe. Understanding how to break down your answer helps you stay organised and articulate your ideas clearly, showcasing your language proficiency.

 

When the cue card section starts, the examiner will hand you a card with a specific topic and prompts. You will have one minute to prepare your thoughts before speaking for up to two minutes on the topic. It’s important to use this time wisely to organise your response.


The best way to answer these cue cards is to break your response into small, manageable pieces:

 

Introduction (Covers: What was the gift?)

 

  • Briefly introduce the gift you are going to discuss.
  • Mention who gave you the gift and on what occasion.
  • Explain why this gift is special to you.

 

Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest (Covers: Who gave it to you?)

 

  • Describe the gift in detail, including its appearance, features, or any specific attributes.
  • Share your personal feelings and reactions when you received the gift.
  • Explain why this gift stands out compared to others you’ve received.

 

Key Highlights (Covers: When did you receive it?)

 

  • Highlight memorable aspects of the gift, such as the thought behind it or how it was presented.
  • Mention any special moments or memories associated with the gift.
  • Describe any impact the gift had on you or how it has been meaningful in your life.

 

Conclusion (Covers: Explain why it is the best gift you have ever received)

 

  • Summarise why this gift is the best you’ve received.
  • Reflect on how it has affected you or why it remains a significant memory.
  • Conclude with a brief statement about the overall importance of the gift to you.

 

By structuring your answer in this way, you can ensure that you cover all the key points effectively and provide a clear, engaging response within the allotted time.

Follow-Up Questions

In the IELTS Speaking test, the follow-up questions or Part 3 is an extension of the cue card round. Here, the examiner will ask questions related to the topic you spoke about in Part 2, allowing you to delve deeper into your thoughts and opinions. 

 

This discussion typically lasts for 4-5 minutes and aims to explore your ideas further, assess your ability to articulate your viewpoints and engage in a meaningful dialogue. It’s an opportunity to demonstrate your fluency and coherence in English by providing well-structured and relevant answers.

Q1. Compare the gifts people received 10 years ago to the presents people receive now; what’s the difference between them?

Answer 1: Gifts a decade ago were often more traditional, like handcrafted items or experiences such as tickets to events. Today, people receive more technological gifts, such as smart devices and gadgets. The shift reflects how technology has become central to our lives, influencing the types of gifts that are popular and desirable.
 

Answer 2: Ten years ago, gifts were usually practical or sentimental, like books or personal keepsakes. Nowadays, there’s a trend towards high-tech gifts, including smartwatches and VR headsets. This change indicates a growing reliance on technology and a desire for modern, innovative products in our daily lives.

Q2. Imagine the gifts children will receive in the future.

Answer 1: In the future, children might receive advanced technological gifts like interactive learning devices or augmented reality toys that blend physical and digital play. These innovations could enhance their educational experiences and provide more immersive forms of entertainment.
 

Answer 2: Future gifts for children could include AI-powered robots designed to assist with learning and play. As technology evolves, these robots might offer personalised interactions and educational content, making learning more engaging and tailored to each child's needs.

Q3. Imagine the gifts people will receive in the future.

Answer 1: In the future, gifts might focus on sustainability and smart technology, such as eco-friendly gadgets or personalised health monitors. These gifts could reflect growing environmental awareness and advancements in personalised technology, catering to individual health and lifestyle needs.
 

Answer 2: Future gifts could feature advanced technology like virtual reality experiences or bio-engineered products that enhance physical or mental well-being. As technology progresses, people might receive gifts that offer both practical benefits and extraordinary experiences, pushing the boundaries of current gift-giving norms.

Q4. Is presenting gifts for every occasion good or bad?

Answer 1: Presenting gifts for every occasion can be both good and bad. On one hand, it shows thoughtfulness and strengthens relationships by celebrating milestones and special moments. On the other hand, it can lead to materialism and expectations that overshadow the true meaning of occasions.
 

Answer 2: Gifting for every occasion has its advantages, like fostering positive relationships and showing appreciation. However, it might also create pressure to continually find appropriate gifts, potentially making the gesture less meaningful. Balancing gifts with other forms of recognition can help maintain their significance.

FAQs

Q. What should I do if I run out of things to say during my cue card response?

Ans. If you run out of things to say during your cue card response, try to elaborate on the points you’ve already mentioned or add more details about your experiences or opinions. You can also relate the topic to personal anecdotes or related experiences to fill the time. Remember, speaking continuously and staying calm is important, as this demonstrates your fluency and ability to manage unexpected situations.

Q. How do I ensure my response is coherent and well-organised?

Ans. To ensure your response is coherent and well-organised, start with a clear topic introduction, then logically progress through your points. Use linking words and phrases to connect ideas smoothly. Structure your response with an introduction, main points, and a conclusion. Practising this structure will help you maintain clarity and coherence, making it easier for the examiner to follow your response.

Q. Are there any common mistakes to avoid in the cue card section?

Ans. Common mistakes to avoid in the cue card section include speaking off-topic or not fully addressing all parts of the prompt. Avoid rambling or giving overly brief responses. It’s also important not to speak too quickly or too slowly; maintain a steady pace. Additionally, ensure you don’t simply repeat information but provide detailed, relevant answers that reflect your thoughts and experiences clearly.

IELTS Important Information

Read More about IELTS Practice Test

IELTS Accepting Universities

IELTS Test Centre and Dates in India

IELTS Accepting Countries

Top Speaking Sample with Answers