Describe A New Development In Your Country Or The Area Where You Live (Like A Shopping Centre, Park, Etc.): IELTS Speaking Cue Card

You should say

  • What is the development?
  • When did you hear about it?
  • How did it influence you?
people images

32 unique answers with expert feedback

Band >7

00:00

/

00:00

Last month, there was a new park that was built across the street from my home. This development has affected us in a very good way because in our locality, old people wanted a place where they can walk around and enjoy nature and greenery and have a good time around with their fellow bodies. And now they have that facility. Moreover, this park was built to support various religious activities like chhat puja and Diwali to provide an open, clean space for the celebration of these festivities. And I think it is a great initiative to promote greenery and to build a better environment. And it was like a very good experience for me as well. When I visited there, they have created a separate path for joggers. And me as a person, I have always been into fitness. So it has been my regular routine ever since to go there every evening for a jog. And I think it is a very good change in my life. So yeah, the park overall has been a great change for the people living in this locality. And it has been a very good initiative by the community to do the same.

Follow up questions


What specific features does the park have that you enjoy?
The park has a jogging path, walking trails, and areas for relaxation. I particularly enjoy the jogging path as it helps me maintain my fitness routine. Additionally, there are benches and green spaces where people can sit and enjoy nature.

How do you think the park has impacted the community?
The park has brought the community together by providing a space for social interaction and activities. It has become a gathering place for families and friends, fostering a sense of community and encouraging people to engage in outdoor activities.

Are there any events held in the park that you participate in?
Yes, the park hosts various events like religious celebrations for chhat puja and Diwali. I participate in these events as they promote community spirit and allow us to celebrate our traditions in a beautiful environment.

Band 7

00:00

/

00:00

One development in my country that I adore is the knowledge and study centres they have erected in every part of the city. I think there are almost 130 to 140 across the state in total. The government has spent a lot of money and carefully planned the knowledge centre. I personally have been to one knowledge centre over a period of 3 months and I find it very comfortable to study. It has been carefully planned with spaces for the students to study, e-learning zones, library with all resources required for students preparing for government exams and other technical examinations. There are also some small study zones for kids who come there on weekends and during their holidays to attend workshops and colour in their drawing books. This is a very appreciable development that the government has proposed because earlier there was no access to such centres and the ones that were available also costed an arm and leg but now it has been very easy for people to go to these centres and study peacefully. The timing has to be improved though as it starts late and closes almost at 7.30-8.00 am but the students who are preparing for exams come here mostly after finishing their work or college so they find it difficult during evenings and there have been many proposals and requests to increase the timing of the study hall. I find it very relaxing to study there because there are many breakout zones such as gardens and landscaped pockets where we can go, sit during the break times or have a walk and then resume back to study.

Follow up questions


How do you think these knowledge centres impact students' performance?
I believe these centres significantly enhance students' performance by providing a conducive environment for studying. With access to resources and quiet spaces, students can focus better and prepare effectively for their exams, which ultimately leads to improved academic results.

What other facilities do you think should be included in these centres?
In addition to study spaces, I think these centres could benefit from including more technology resources, such as computers and high-speed internet. Additionally, having more workshops and tutoring sessions could help students who need extra assistance in their studies.

How do you feel about the accessibility of these centres for all students?
I feel that the accessibility has greatly improved since the centres are now available in various parts of the city. However, there are still some areas where transportation might be an issue. Ensuring that all students can easily reach these centres is crucial for maximizing their benefits.

calendar icon

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
anonymous person icon

Reported by

Anonymous student Band 7.5

location icon

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
anonymous person icon

Reported by

Anonymous student Band 8

location icon

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
anonymous person icon

Reported by

Anonymous student Band 6.5

location icon

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
anonymous person icon

Reported by

Anonymous student Band 7

location icon

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
anonymous person icon

Reported by

Anonymous student Band 7.5

location icon

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.

Band 7

00:00

/

00:00

One of the major developments in my area is the metro train services. The project was introduced in early 2008, where the minister of my state introduced the idea of starting metro rail services as a public transport means of travel. And I think by mid 2014, the first metro train was introduced in Bangalore. And I think that was a huge development in terms of transport, especially with Bangalore being popular for its traffic and time consuming destinations. I believe metro trains helped the people in a large way by shortening the time of travel by almost 50%. It helped people travel from A to B much faster with less traffic and a very comfortable air conditioned train, ensuring safe and secure travel.

Follow up questions


How has the introduction of metro services impacted daily commuters?
The introduction of metro services has significantly reduced travel time for daily commuters. Many people who used to spend hours in traffic can now reach their destinations much faster. This has not only improved their productivity but also enhanced their overall quality of life.

What are some challenges faced during the construction of the metro?
During the construction of the metro, there were several challenges, including land acquisition issues, traffic disruptions, and public protests. Additionally, ensuring safety during construction and managing the budget were significant hurdles that the authorities had to overcome.

Do you think more cities should develop metro systems?
Absolutely, more cities should consider developing metro systems as they provide an efficient and eco-friendly mode of transport. With increasing urbanization and traffic congestion, metro systems can help alleviate these issues and promote sustainable urban development.

Band 7

00:00

/

00:00

A new development in my area was this construction of this shopping mall. It started construction but we were not sure. We did not know what, we thought that probably it's a new apartment complex. But it was an M-Bazaar shopping mall. It actually really helped the surrounding areas to grow more. As people who went for shopping could also have lunch or dinner in the nearby restaurants. And it helped them to grow so much economically that they opened another street food cafe just next to the restaurant they already had. It was particularly very helpful to me and to my family as well. Because when I returned from the UK, we could literally go out at any time. Because it was really convenient to go out and shop anything that we would want or even just to check out things. And to decide to purchase it later or not. So it is really good because we don't have to travel any further for shopping clothes or such clothing items. So I feel it was a good development.

Follow up questions


How has the shopping mall impacted local businesses?
The shopping mall has significantly boosted local businesses by attracting more visitors. Restaurants and cafes nearby have seen increased foot traffic, leading to higher sales. This economic growth has encouraged new establishments to open, creating a vibrant community atmosphere.

What other developments do you think are needed in your area?
I believe more recreational spaces like parks or community centers are needed. These would provide residents with areas to relax, socialize, and engage in activities. Additionally, improving public transportation would help connect the mall and other areas more efficiently.

Do you think shopping malls are beneficial for communities?
Yes, shopping malls can be very beneficial. They create jobs, stimulate the local economy, and provide a convenient place for residents to shop and socialize. However, it's important to balance this with maintaining local culture and supporting small businesses.

Band 7

00:00

/

00:00

A new development in my country is, government has been pushing for green energy, particularly solar. It has affected me because due to the subsidies provided by the government, we have installed solar roofs in our home. It has drastically brought down the electricity bills and has allowed us to enjoy electric appliances like AC, electric car and all more effectively. This has revolutionized the use of electricity and we also have a mental satisfaction that we are using electricity from renewable sources and the carbon footprint of the country is reducing due to this.

Follow up questions


How do you think solar energy impacts the environment?
Solar energy significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions, helping to combat climate change. By using renewable sources like solar, we decrease our reliance on fossil fuels, which are major contributors to pollution and global warming.

What are some challenges of implementing solar energy in homes?
Some challenges include the initial installation costs, the need for adequate sunlight, and potential maintenance issues. Additionally, not all homes are suitable for solar panels, and there may be regulatory hurdles to overcome.

How do you see the future of renewable energy in your country?
I believe the future of renewable energy in my country is promising. With continued government support and public awareness, we can expect more innovations and investments in solar and other renewable sources, leading to a more sustainable energy landscape.
Show all 32 answers

Cue 1:What is the development?

  • Begin by clearly stating what the new development is, such as a shopping centre or park.
  • Describe its features and why it is significant to the community.

Example

The new development in my area is a large shopping centre called 'City Mall'. It opened last month and features a variety of stores, a food court, and a multiplex cinema. This mall is significant because it provides a modern shopping experience and creates job opportunities for local residents.


Cue 2:When did you hear about it?

  • Mention how you first learned about the development, whether through news, social media, or word of mouth.
  • Include any specific details about the timing or context of when you heard about it.

Example

I first heard about City Mall through a Facebook post from a local community group. They announced the grand opening date, which was just a few weeks before it actually opened. I was excited to see such a big project coming to our area.


Cue 3:How did it influence you?

  • Explain how this development has impacted your life or the lives of people around you.
  • Share any personal experiences or changes that have occurred since the development opened.

Example

The opening of City Mall has greatly influenced my social life. I now have a convenient place to meet friends, shop for clothes, and enjoy meals together. It has also made my weekends more enjoyable as I can explore new restaurants and watch movies without traveling far.


Conclusion

    Example

    In conclusion, the new City Mall has transformed our community by providing a modern shopping experience and enhancing social interactions. It has become a central hub for entertainment and shopping, making life more convenient and enjoyable for everyone in the area.


    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: Vague Descriptions

    Using vague language can make your answer unclear. It's important to provide specific details about the development to engage the listener and demonstrate your language skills.

    bulb icon

    Tip

    Use descriptive language and specific examples to explain what the development is and its features.


    2: Ignoring Personal Impact

    Failing to discuss how the development influenced you can make your response less personal and relatable. Personal experiences add depth to your answer.

    bulb icon

    Tip

    Share a personal story or feeling related to the development to make your response more engaging.


    Lack of Structure

    A disorganized response can confuse the listener. It's essential to structure your answer clearly to cover all the cues effectively.

    bulb icon

    Tip

    Follow a clear structure: introduce the development, mention when you heard about it, and explain its influence on you.


    calendar icon

    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
    anonymous person icon

    Reported by

    Anonymous student Band 7.5

    location icon

    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
    anonymous person icon

    Reported by

    Anonymous student Band 8

    location icon

    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
    anonymous person icon

    Reported by

    Anonymous student Band 6.5

    location icon

    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
    anonymous person icon

    Reported by

    Anonymous student Band 7

    location icon

    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
    anonymous person icon

    Reported by

    Anonymous student Band 7.5

    location icon

    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.

    All Answers

    Here are all the answers by real-users practicing speaking for IELTS Cue Cards on our IELTS Prep App.

    Band >7

    Last month, there was a new park that was built across the street from my home. This development has affected us in a very good way because in our locality, old people wanted a place where they can walk around and enjoy nature and greenery and have a good time around with their fellow bodies. And now they have that facility. Moreover, this park was built to support various religious activities like chhat puja and Diwali to provide an open, clean space for the celebration of these festivities. And I think it is a great initiative to promote greenery and to build a better environment. And it was like a very good experience for me as well. When I visited there, they have created a separate path for joggers. And me as a person, I have always been into fitness. So it has been my regular routine ever since to go there every evening for a jog. And I think it is a very good change in my life. So yeah, the park overall has been a great change for the people living in this locality. And it has been a very good initiative by the community to do the same.

    Band 7

    A new development that I believe has taken place in my area is the construction of the Statue of Unity. It is this massive statue over a thousand feet tall made out of bronze and gold. This statue is considered to be one of the tallest in the world and has definitely attracted a lot of tourists from all different parts of our country. Right from youngsters to the older generation, everyone is attracted and curious about this statue that they make long hours of travel simply to have a glimpse of this statue. This statue has in fact promoted quite a lot of tourism in our area solely because the statue has been built, a lot of farmers have been getting jobs, a lot of tour guides in fact have started a lot of tours and even local artisans are now more in demand. There have been a lot of gift shops that have come up in the surrounding areas because when tourists arrive, they always want to take back a memento from them and this is a really sweet reminder of that time at the Statue of Unity. I am really pleased with this development because I get to meet a lot of people and meeting people always enjoys me. People come to look at the statue and I get to have a conversation with them and this has been a really great experience and I am really grateful to the government for coming up with such a brilliant idea.

    Band 7

    One of the major developments in my area is the metro train services. The project was introduced in early 2008, where the minister of my state introduced the idea of starting metro rail services as a public transport means of travel. And I think by mid 2014, the first metro train was introduced in Bangalore. And I think that was a huge development in terms of transport, especially with Bangalore being popular for its traffic and time consuming destinations. I believe metro trains helped the people in a large way by shortening the time of travel by almost 50%. It helped people travel from A to B much faster with less traffic and a very comfortable air conditioned train, ensuring safe and secure travel.

    Band 7

    A new development in my country is, government has been pushing for green energy, particularly solar. It has affected me because due to the subsidies provided by the government, we have installed solar roofs in our home. It has drastically brought down the electricity bills and has allowed us to enjoy electric appliances like AC, electric car and all more effectively. This has revolutionized the use of electricity and we also have a mental satisfaction that we are using electricity from renewable sources and the carbon footprint of the country is reducing due to this.

    Band 7

    A new development in my area was this construction of this shopping mall. It started construction but we were not sure. We did not know what, we thought that probably it's a new apartment complex. But it was an M-Bazaar shopping mall. It actually really helped the surrounding areas to grow more. As people who went for shopping could also have lunch or dinner in the nearby restaurants. And it helped them to grow so much economically that they opened another street food cafe just next to the restaurant they already had. It was particularly very helpful to me and to my family as well. Because when I returned from the UK, we could literally go out at any time. Because it was really convenient to go out and shop anything that we would want or even just to check out things. And to decide to purchase it later or not. So it is really good because we don't have to travel any further for shopping clothes or such clothing items. So I feel it was a good development.

    Band 7

    One development in my country that I adore is the knowledge and study centres they have erected in every part of the city. I think there are almost 130 to 140 across the state in total. The government has spent a lot of money and carefully planned the knowledge centre. I personally have been to one knowledge centre over a period of 3 months and I find it very comfortable to study. It has been carefully planned with spaces for the students to study, e-learning zones, library with all resources required for students preparing for government exams and other technical examinations. There are also some small study zones for kids who come there on weekends and during their holidays to attend workshops and colour in their drawing books. This is a very appreciable development that the government has proposed because earlier there was no access to such centres and the ones that were available also costed an arm and leg but now it has been very easy for people to go to these centres and study peacefully. The timing has to be improved though as it starts late and closes almost at 7.30-8.00 am but the students who are preparing for exams come here mostly after finishing their work or college so they find it difficult during evenings and there have been many proposals and requests to increase the timing of the study hall. I find it very relaxing to study there because there are many breakout zones such as gardens and landscaped pockets where we can go, sit during the break times or have a walk and then resume back to study.

    Band 6-7

    ಟೇಪಡೆಗೆ ಮಾರುದಲ್ಲಿ ನೀವೆ ಮತ್ತಮದ್ದಲ್ಲಿ ಕೊಂಕಾಗಾ ಬಿಂತಲ್ಲಿ ಮುಂತಿಕೆ..? ಅದನು ಮತ್ತಮದ್ದಲ್ಲಿ ಕೊಂಕಾಗಾಗಾ ಬಿಂತಲ್ಲಿ ಮತ್ತಮದ್ದಲ್ಲಿ ಮುಂತಿ ನೀವೆ ಬಿಂತಲ್ಲಿ ಮುಂತಿಕೆ. But at the time when the school starts at 9 o'clock, all of us need to leave from the school. Keeping this in mind, our recent elected president constructed one new park in the heart of my hometown. It is a very big park with a diameter of 0.5 km. That means if you run around the park, it will be 1 km for you. That's why it is very helpful for old people and other needy people to do walking, jogging or running whatever they want. After the construction of the park, every child in my hometown wants to go there to have some happy time in their day time. I heard about the construction of the park 2 years ago. It makes me more active. Before this, I used to...

    Band 6-7

    A new development in my area is a park where there is a place for walking around. Every evening I spend my time walking in the park. It gives me peace because the place, the trees, everything is so beautiful that I love being at that place specially in the evening time. In the evening time I am really busy with my other work but evenings are so beautiful because of these parks. I have made many friends who also come to spend their time in the park. You can see many old people walking around the park, taking a walk, doing chit chat with their friends. Children playing in the park is one of the most beautiful thing I get to see Delhi. It has become a part and parcel of my life. I just love being there specially my life has had a very positive impact after taking evening walks.

    Band 6-7

    I'm from Patiala, Punjab and I have lived in this city since my childhood and I have seen this city growing up in front of my eyes and most of recent development I have seen in my area is a complex city mall which took almost 10 years to build. However it changed the whole face of our city and as it attracts many people from other cities. Also it has a big PVR cinema where 3D and 2D movies are released. It's very helpful. Yeah, I think that's it. It has a shopping mall too where luxury products, clothes, different clothing brands are there. A reliant small grocery for people. I usually go there for the grocery shopping because it's more affordable as a student and yeah there are many fun games to play for kids too but yeah.

    Band 6-7

    I reside in a place called Vijayawada which is a city located in the district of Andhra Pradesh. In our locality there is a park that is being developed. The park is useful for both adults and children. There is a lot of exercise equipment and also the jogging track has been prepared. There are a lot of kid friendly equipment such as sliders, swinglers and other kids playing equipment has also been installed. The park is a beautiful place with a lot of greenery surrounding the park and there are a lot of flowers as well. Most of the senior citizens in our locality would like to have a walk in that particular park. Mostly people choose it as a source of refreshment and recreation. During the evenings to be very precise or 6 o'clock most of the people gather there and have a chit-chat. Even the women of our locality has been seen. It is a very good place for kids to enjoy and also for the adults to take a small break and have a walk in the nature. There is a small fountain that has also been installed in the center of the park which is quite a very beautiful view. After having dealt with the whole tide some day everybody of us should go to a place where there is a lot of greenery and the area can be quite soothing and calming. I would really like to visit the park quite often.
    background image

    Explore

    273 Cue Cards

    ielts logo

    Get the IELTS Prep App

    Star rating icon

    4.2

    1M+ Installs

    app download banner image

    Get the app link on your phone

    +91

    Or download app from

    google play storeapp store
    master ielts speaking ad