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Updated on Aug 28, 2024, 20:04
An IELTS Speaking cue card serves as a prompt presented to candidates during the speaking section of the IELTS examination. It evaluates your ability to articulate thoughts, ideas, and experiences within a specified time frame.
This practice test will revolve around ‘Describe when someone gave you something.’
In this cue card topic, you must reflect on moments when a gesture of generosity or kindness was extended to you. Consider the significance of such instances in your life, whether it was a tangible gift, a heartfelt token, or an unexpected act of benevolence.
Throughout this discussion, we will examine sample responses to this topic, providing valuable insights into structuring your answer effectively and conveying your sentiments with clarity and coherence. Get ready to explore various scenarios in which someone bestowed upon you a meaningful gift or gesture.
Introduction (Covers: Who gave it to you?):
Describing your experience/opinion/interest (Covers: What was the thing?):
Key highlights (Covers: When did you receive it?):
Conclusion (Covers: How did you feel about it?):
Introduction (Who gave it to you?):
Describing your experience/opinion/interest (What was the thing?):
Key highlights (When did you receive it?):
Conclusion (How did you feel about it?):
Introduction (Who gave it to you?):
Describing your experience/opinion/interest (What was the thing?):
Key highlights (When did you receive it?):
Conclusion (How did you feel about it?):
Also Read: Best IELTS Cue Cards for 7+ Band Score
Understanding how to effectively respond to cue card topics like ‘describe when someone gave you something’ can significantly enhance your performance in the IELTS Speaking test. Here's why:
When the cue card section begins, the examiner hands you a cue card with a prompt, such as ‘Describe when someone gave you something.’ You have one minute to prepare your response before speaking.
Introduction (Covers: Who gave it to you?)
Describing your experience/opinion/interest (Covers: What was the thing?)
Key highlights (Covers: When did you receive it?)
Conclusion (Covers: How did you feel about it?)
Now that we know how to tackle each section let's explore some of the samples based on ‘Describe when someone gave you something.’
There’s one more familiar cue card topic: ‘Describe when someone gave you something you wanted.’ You can apply the abovementioned approach to respond to this topic effectively.
The structure and context of both topics are quite similar. However, the key distinction lies in receiving something you desire. In this case, you can specifically mention the particular item or product you desired and how its receipt made the experience more meaningful to you.
After you have spoken about the cue card topic, the examiner will ask follow-up questions to delve deeper into the subject. This round assesses your ability to discuss abstract ideas and express opinions clearly.
Expect questions that encourage you to elaborate on your cue card topic and connect it to broader themes. The follow-up questions help the examiner evaluate your fluency, coherence, and ability to engage in a more detailed discussion.
Here are some possible follow-up questions related to the topic ‘Describe when someone gave you something,’ along with sample answers:
Question 1. What are the things young people like to buy?
Answer 1: Young people today are often drawn to the latest technology, such as smartphones, laptops, and gaming consoles. They also tend to spend money on fashion, including trendy clothes and accessories. Additionally, many young people enjoy buying experiences, such as concert tickets or travel packages, which they can share on social media.
Answer 2: Young people frequently purchase gadgets like tablets and smartwatches. They are also keen on fitness products, including gym memberships and sports gear. Moreover, a growing trend among youngsters to buy sustainable and eco-friendly products reflects their increasing awareness of environmental issues.
Question 2. How do your friends influence your shopping choices?
Answer 1: My friends significantly influence my shopping choices, especially regarding fashion and technology. If a friend recommends a particular brand or product, I will try it. We often share our experiences and reviews, which helps us make more informed purchasing decisions.
Answer 2: Friends play a big role in my shopping habits. For instance, if a friend buys something and really likes it, I often consider getting it, too. We also go shopping together, and their opinions can sway my choices, mainly when I'm unsure about a purchase.
Question 3. Is consumption important to a country?
Answer 1: Yes, consumption is crucial to a country's economy. It drives demand for goods and services, stimulating production and job creation. High levels of consumer spending can lead to economic growth and stability as businesses thrive and the government collects more taxes.
Answer 2: Consumption plays a vital role in a country's economic health. It fuels the economy by increasing demand, which leads to more production and employment opportunities. Moreover, consumer spending helps generate revenue for the government through taxes, enabling better public services and infrastructure.
Question 4. What should parents do when their children ask for things their friends have?
Answer 1: Parents should explain the value of money and the importance of making thoughtful purchasing decisions. It is crucial to teach children that they can't always have everything they want. Parents can also encourage their children to set savings goals for items they desire, fostering financial responsibility.
Answer 2: When children ask for things their friends have, parents should openly discuss needs versus wants. They should help their children understand the importance of budgeting and saving. Additionally, parents might consider rewarding their children for good behaviour or achievements rather than giving in to every request.
Question 5. Why do people buy things that are not necessary?
Answer 1: People often buy unnecessary items due to social pressure and the desire to fit in with peers. Advertising and marketing also play a significant role in creating perceived needs. Additionally, shopping can be a way for people to cope with stress or boredom, leading to impulse purchases.
Answer 2: Many purchase non-essential items because they seek happiness or satisfaction from new possessions. The influence of social media, where others showcase their latest buys, can also drive unnecessary spending. Moreover, discounts and sales often entice people to buy things they don't actually need.
Ans. Yes, you can and should express your opinion during the test, even if it differs from the examiner's. The IELTS Speaking test assesses your ability to communicate your thoughts clearly and coherently. Regardless of whether it aligns with the examiner's views, providing a well-articulated and reasoned opinion demonstrates your language proficiency and critical thinking skills.
Ans. To crack the Cue Card task, start by quickly brainstorming and jotting down key points. Structure your response into an introduction, main points, and a conclusion. Speak clearly and coherently, elaborating on each point. Practice regularly to build confidence and fluency. Use varied vocabulary and grammar structures to demonstrate your language proficiency. Staying calm and focused will help you deliver a well-organised and compelling response.
Ans. When making notes for the Cue Card task, use the one-minute preparation time efficiently. Write down keywords and short phrases for each part of your response: introduction, main points, and conclusion. Focus on key details like who, what, when, where, and why. Organise your notes logically to help you remember your points. Practising this note-taking strategy will improve your ability to deliver a structured and fluent response.
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