Describe A Historical Period: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

You should say

Introduction
What period do you want to know about?
Why do you want to know about it?
How do you think you can know about it?

26 unique answers with expert feedback

What specific innovations from the Renaissance do you find most impactful?

I find the innovations in art and science during the Renaissance particularly impactful. For instance, the use of perspective in painting transformed how art was created and perceived. Additionally, advancements in anatomy and astronomy laid the groundwork for modern science, influencing countless fields.

How do you think the Renaissance influences today's society?

The Renaissance laid the foundation for modern thought, emphasizing reason and inquiry. Its influence is evident in our education systems, scientific methods, and artistic expressions. The emphasis on individualism and creativity during this period continues to inspire innovation and cultural development today.

Which Renaissance figure do you admire the most and why?

I admire Leonardo da Vinci the most due to his incredible versatility. He was not only a brilliant artist but also a scientist, inventor, and thinker. His curiosity and ability to connect different fields of knowledge exemplify the spirit of the Renaissance and inspire me to explore various interests.

Band 7

00:00

One historical period that I find absolutely fascinating is the Renaissance which occurred in Europe between the 14th and 17th century. The word Renaissance literally means rebirth and it truly was a time when there was a revival of the interest in art, science, literature and human potential. It started in Italy, particularly in cities like Florence and Venice and then spreads across Europe. What makes this period so remarkable is the sheer explosion of creativity and knowledge. Artists like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo and Raphael produced some of the most iconic works of the art in history, like the Mona Lisa and the sealing of the Sistine Chapel. Their work showed a deep understanding of human anatomy and emotion, which was a major shift from the more religious and rigid styles of the Middle Ages. But the Renaissance wasn't just about the art. It was also a time when science took a huge leap forward. Thinkers like Galileo Galilei and Nicolaus Copernicus challenged traditional ways of the universe. For example, Copernicus proposed the helix-centric model, which said that the earth revolved around the sun, a revolutionary idea at that time. Literature and philosophy also flourished during this era. Writers like Shakespeare and Dante created works that are still celebrated today. Meanwhile, philosophers like Erasmus promoted the idea of humanism, which emphasized individual potential and critical thinking over blind faith. The Renaissance had a huge impact on the world. It paved the way for the modern scientific method and helped shape modern Western society. I personally admired this period because it was driven by curiosity, learning and desire to question the status quo.

Follow up questions

What specific artwork from the Renaissance do you admire the most?

I particularly admire Leonardo da Vinci's 'Mona Lisa' for its enigmatic expression and masterful use of sfumato. The way Da Vinci captured light and shadow gives the painting a lifelike quality that continues to intrigue viewers. It's a perfect example of the artistic innovation of the Renaissance.

How did the Renaissance influence modern science?

The Renaissance laid the groundwork for the scientific method by encouraging observation and experimentation. Thinkers like Galileo emphasized the importance of evidence and questioning established beliefs, which led to significant advancements in fields like astronomy and physics that shape our understanding today.

In what ways do you think humanism from the Renaissance affects us today?

Humanism's emphasis on individual potential and critical thinking continues to influence modern education and philosophy. It encourages people to question authority and seek knowledge, fostering a culture of innovation and personal development that is essential in today's society.

Band 6-7

00:00

Yeah, I would like to talk about the Gupta Empire, often referred to as the Golden Age of India. The Gupta Empire furnished in Northern India for over two centuries, starting the early 4th century CE. This saw its remarkable advantages in science, with a groundbreaking foundation of mathematics and which made a history in that century. The period produced painting, literally words like Kalidasa plays, Kalidasa play, Hindu Zimflorism, Buddhist prayed to the other part of Asian during this time. I find this period very fascinating and advanced because it shows how advanced technologies are used. Technology can be used to spread knowledge over global and due advanced century to everyone. Truly represent a golden age in India history with achievement that continue to influence the world today.

Follow up questions

What specific advancements in mathematics occurred during the Gupta Empire?

During the Gupta Empire, significant advancements included the concept of zero, the decimal system, and contributions to algebra and geometry. Mathematicians like Aryabhata made groundbreaking discoveries that laid the foundation for modern mathematics.

How did the Gupta Empire influence art and literature?

The Gupta Empire is known for its flourishing arts, including classical dance, sculpture, and literature. Kalidasa, a prominent playwright, produced works that are still celebrated today. The period's art often depicted religious themes and showcased intricate craftsmanship.

In what ways did the Gupta Empire contribute to global knowledge?

The Gupta Empire played a crucial role in the exchange of knowledge through trade and cultural interactions. Innovations in medicine, astronomy, and mathematics were shared with other civilizations, influencing various fields globally and contributing to the Renaissance.

Practice other cue cards

Describe a tourist attraction that very few people visit but you think is interesting

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Describe A Quiet Place You Like To Go

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Describe a place you have been to and would like to recommend others to live there (not your hometown)

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Describe A Long Car Journey You Went On

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Describe a place with a lot of trees that you would like to visit (e.g. a forest, oasis)

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Describe A Tourist Attraction You Enjoyed Visiting

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Describe a city you have been to and want to visit again.

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Describe a place in your country or part of your country that you would like to recommend to visitors/travellers

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Band 6-7

00:00

A historical period really makes me think about the history of India and the most intriguing history I feel is when India got its independence. So, I would really love to know more about how India got its independence. I mean, everybody has heard stories of our great warriors, peacemakers, but I would really want to feel how it was to be in that era of freedom when people used to fight for freedom against the Britishers. And also, how must it have been to be in that era of struggle.

Follow up questions

What impact did India's independence have on its culture?

India's independence led to a resurgence of cultural pride and the revival of traditional arts, literature, and languages. It also fostered a sense of national identity, uniting diverse communities under the banner of freedom and self-governance, which continues to influence Indian culture today.

How do you think the struggle for independence is remembered today?

The struggle for independence is commemorated through national holidays like Independence Day, educational curricula, and various memorials. It is remembered as a time of sacrifice and unity, inspiring future generations to value freedom and democracy while also recognizing the ongoing challenges faced by the nation.

Can you name some key figures from that historical period?

Key figures include Mahatma Gandhi, who advocated for non-violent resistance, Jawaharlal Nehru, who became India's first Prime Minister, and leaders like Subhas Chandra Bose and Bhagat Singh, who played significant roles in the fight against British rule, each contributing uniquely to the independence movement.

Band 6-7

00:00

I am not very familiar with history and the historical periods, but India has a diverse culture and is known for its rich heritage and ancient legends. One such period that I was educated about was the Chola's period. I belong to the southern part of the nation where it was ruled by kings named Rajendra Cholas or Pallavas and all those things. These people were known for their bravery, for their strength, for making lots of inventions, discoveries, for modernization etc. One reason I am very close or one reason I chose this topic was the temples I see around me. Most of the temples in South India, especially Tamil Nadu has this rich design, scriptures, sculptures that leaves me in awe and most of them were built during the Chola dynasty period. Without the help of modern technologies or usage of any artificial intelligence, it was merely on the knowledge of the Rajgurus or the ministers or the kings that led to such big monuments. I would like to know more about it in future as time passes, but as a person who has always been a spectator of such amazing monuments, I would like to know more about it through the ancient scriptures where they describe bravery, strength and their legacy to us and also the internet that also provides extra information about all these things. In short, I am not much of an historical person or remembers fact, but I always respect and love the Chola period.

Follow up questions

What specific inventions or discoveries from the Chola period do you find most interesting?

I find the advancements in architecture and irrigation particularly fascinating. The Chola dynasty was known for its innovative temple designs and the development of extensive irrigation systems that transformed agriculture in the region.

How do you think the Chola period has influenced modern South Indian culture?

The Chola period has left a lasting impact on South Indian culture, especially in art, architecture, and religious practices. The temples built during this time continue to be important cultural and spiritual centers, influencing contemporary art and community life.

Are there any specific temples from the Chola period that you would recommend visiting?

Yes, I would recommend visiting the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur and the Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple. Both are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and showcase the grandeur of Chola architecture and artistry, making them must-see destinations.

Show all 26 answers

Cue 1:Introduction

Begin by briefly introducing the historical period you want to discuss.
Mention its significance or impact on society.

Example

Today, I would like to talk about the Mughal Empire, which was a significant period in Indian history from the early 16th to the 18th century. This era is known for its remarkable contributions to art, architecture, and culture in India.

Cue 2:What period do you want to know about?

Clearly specify the historical period you are interested in.
Provide some context about what happened during that time.

Example

I am particularly interested in the Mughal Empire, especially during the reign of Shah Jahan, who is famous for building the Taj Mahal. This period was marked by great advancements in architecture and the flourishing of arts.

Cue 3:Why do you want to know about it?

Share your personal reasons for wanting to learn about this period.
Connect it to your interests or studies.

Example

I want to know more about the Mughal Empire because I have always been fascinated by its rich history and cultural heritage. As a student of history, I believe understanding this period helps me appreciate the diverse influences that shaped modern India.

Cue 4:How do you think you can know about it?

Discuss the methods you plan to use to learn about this historical period.
Mention specific resources like books, documentaries, or museums.

Example

To learn more about the Mughal Empire, I plan to read books by historians like William Dalrymple and watch documentaries available on platforms like YouTube. Additionally, I hope to visit historical sites like Agra Fort and the Taj Mahal to gain a deeper understanding of the architecture and history.

Conclusion

Example

In conclusion, the Mughal Empire is a fascinating historical period that has greatly influenced Indian culture. By exploring its history through various resources, I hope to gain a better appreciation of its legacy.

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: Lack of Specificity

Being vague about the historical period can lead to a weak response. Candidates should provide specific details to engage the listener and demonstrate knowledge.

Tip

Choose a specific historical period and include key events, figures, or cultural aspects to enrich your answer.

2: Ignoring Personal Connection

Failing to explain why the period is significant to you can make your answer less compelling. Personal connections add depth and interest.

Tip

Share a personal reason for your interest in the period, such as a family story or a book that inspired you.

Overloading with Information

Providing too much information can overwhelm the listener and dilute your main points. It's important to be concise and focused.

Tip

Select a few key points to discuss and elaborate on them clearly, rather than trying to cover everything.

IELTS Cue Cards asked last week

Reported by Leap students who gave IELTS

Describe your favourite food at a traditional festival or a special event in your country

Reported by

Anonymous student Band 7.5

Pitampura Test Centre, New Delhi

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

Reported by

Anonymous student Band 8

Sector 34 Test Centre, Chandigarh

Answer

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

Reported by

Anonymous student Band 6.5

Whitefield Test Center, Bengaluru

Answer

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

Reported by

Anonymous student Band 7

Begumpet Test Centre, Hyderabad

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

Reported by

Anonymous student Band 7.5

CBD Belapur Test Centre, Navi Mumbai

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.