Describe a time when you changed your opinion: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

You should say

What was it?
When & why did you change it?
How did you feel about it?

30 unique answers with expert feedback

What specific aspects of language learning changed your perspective?

I realized that language learning is not just about vocabulary or grammar, but it encompasses understanding the culture, traditions, and nuances of the people who speak that language. This broader perspective made me appreciate the depth and richness of learning a language.

How has learning French impacted your view on other languages?

Learning French has opened my eyes to the beauty of other languages as well. I now see that each language has its unique charm and complexities, and I am motivated to explore more languages to gain insights into different cultures and ways of thinking.

What challenges did you face while learning French?

Initially, I struggled with pronunciation and understanding the grammar rules, which can be quite intricate. However, with consistent practice and immersion in the language, I found that these challenges became manageable, and I started enjoying the learning process.

Band 6-7

00:00

Here I would like to talk about my trading experience, both I and my wife started trading 4 years before, we were searching for the sources in the internet at the beginning, I found a source of fundamental analysis in a website called ticker tape, in that time I was explaining about fundamental analysis to my wife, I thought that was the correct opinion, after 2 days she found that was wrong and bring that concern to me, initially I was not accepting with her opinion, so after some time I did a research on it and I found that was wrong, I was feeling proud of my wife that she pointed out my wrong opinion in that case.

Follow up questions

What other experiences have you had where you changed your opinion?

I have had several experiences where I changed my opinion, especially in learning environments. For instance, during my university studies, I initially believed that group projects were ineffective. However, after working on a successful project with my peers, I realized that collaboration can lead to better outcomes.

How do you usually react when someone challenges your opinion?

When someone challenges my opinion, I try to remain open-minded. Initially, I may feel defensive, but I value constructive criticism. I take time to reflect on their perspective and do my own research, as I believe it's important to consider different viewpoints before forming a final opinion.

Why do you think it's important to be open to changing your opinions?

Being open to changing opinions is crucial for personal growth and learning. It allows us to adapt to new information and perspectives, fostering critical thinking. This flexibility can lead to better decision-making and improved relationships, as it shows respect for others' viewpoints.

Band 6-7

00:00

So, the time when I changed my opinion was, it was during the pandemic, during the coronavirus, where the whole world was in isolation and all of us were stuck at home. Well, at that time, I was, I didn't know what to do with my life, as I was really confused and I didn't know what to do with my future. So, I planned to do my Bachelors in Business Administration in India. And the other, my second option was to do a Makeup Artist course. I just thought, so I just realized later that instead of doing makeup course first, I would like to know how the business works. So, I changed my opinion from makeup to study business or get a degree of BBA. So, I finally decided to major in entrepreneurship. And yeah, that's how I completed my Bachelors degree. And how I felt about it after making the decision was, I felt really proud of myself because not many people would choose to do higher studies and then, you know, struggle through exams and everything. But then, I was really interested in the particular subject. So, that made me really motivated and look forward to what the course had to offer. So, I really don't regret that I made that decision.

Follow up questions

What influenced your decision to choose business over makeup?

I realized that understanding business principles would be more beneficial for my future. I wanted to equip myself with skills that could help me in various fields, including makeup, which is also a business. This realization came from reflecting on my long-term goals during the pandemic.

How did you feel about your decision after starting your studies?

After starting my studies, I felt a sense of accomplishment and excitement. The subjects were engaging, and I found myself enjoying the learning process. It was rewarding to see how the concepts applied to real-world scenarios, and it motivated me to excel in my coursework.

Do you think the pandemic played a significant role in your decision-making?

Absolutely. The pandemic forced many of us to pause and reflect on our lives and goals. It provided me with the time to think deeply about my future and what I truly wanted to pursue, leading to my decision to focus on business studies.

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Band 6-7

00:00

There was a time that I had to change my opinion from changing my career from a physiotherapy background to a clinical technology background. I had to go through a lot of preparation whether I need to choose an opinion, whether I need to change the career from a clinical based background to a technology based background. It all started from where I started realizing where I was not good in my profession and I need to switch where I can be more proficient in what that I do. I started looking up for options where I can get more interest and really put my whole effort in the work that I do. I started looking out for courses where I can invest my time and courses where the technology is wide. This made me help to know there are some technologies where I can put my time and learn where I can get into a better skill and into a position. This time was very challenging for me because I had to choose a thing which would definitely change my whole future. After this, furthermore, I realized taking advices from my family and mostly praying to God, I opted to choose for a technology based opinion. This completely changed me and the work that I do now. If I remember back, the time that I had to choose between those options, but the clarity that I got to invest was really worth it. So to sum up this experience, the time was very challenging yet a very interesting one.

Follow up questions

What factors influenced your decision to change your career?

Several factors influenced my decision, including my realization that I wasn't excelling in physiotherapy and my desire to find a field where I could be more proficient and passionate. I also considered the potential for growth and opportunities in clinical technology.

How did you feel during the process of changing your opinion?

The process was quite challenging and filled with uncertainty. I felt anxious about making such a significant change, but I also felt a sense of excitement as I explored new possibilities and the potential for a more fulfilling career.

What advice would you give to someone considering a career change?

I would advise them to thoroughly research their options, seek guidance from trusted individuals, and reflect on their interests and strengths. It's important to be open to change and to trust that the right decision will lead to personal and professional growth.

Band 6-7

00:00

Basically, the opinion that I changed within time was marrying at a young age. I thought that I would be the person who would marry at a very young age, that is, like 25 something. I just thought that I would just get married at the right age, have children at the right age, because I don't want to get old, like come in mid-30s and then do marriages and then have kids, because I felt that biologically I would not be able to bear children. But now that I realize, when I think out aloud, I feel that marriage is basically, it's a choice, like you can do it or you can, you just simply cannot marry. So I feel, I thought that maybe I could just not marry, first have a good life, first be financially stable and then I will see if that fits my environment and then I would think of marrying and it is not very necessary to marry, I feel.

Follow up questions

What factors influenced your initial opinion about marrying young?

Initially, I was influenced by societal norms and expectations. Many people around me believed that marrying young was ideal, and I thought it was the right path for me. I also felt pressure from family and friends who often discussed marriage and starting families at a young age.

How did your perspective on marriage change over time?

Over time, I realized that marriage is a personal choice and not a necessity. I began to value personal growth, financial stability, and self-discovery more than adhering to societal timelines. This shift allowed me to focus on my goals and aspirations before considering marriage.

What advice would you give to someone struggling with their opinion on marriage?

I would advise them to take their time and reflect on what they truly want. It's important to consider personal values, life goals, and the kind of relationship they envision. Everyone's journey is different, and it's okay to prioritize self-development before making such a significant decision.

Show all 30 answers

Cue 1:What was it?

Clearly state the opinion you had before and what it was about.
Provide context to help the listener understand why this opinion was significant.

Example

Initially, I had a very negative opinion about online learning. I believed that it lacked the personal touch and effectiveness of traditional classroom education.

Cue 2:When & why did you change it?

Describe the specific event or experience that led to your change of opinion.
Explain the reasons behind your change, focusing on what new information or experiences influenced you.

Example

During the pandemic, I was forced to attend online classes for my college courses. I realized that the interactive tools and resources available made learning engaging and accessible. This experience changed my perspective completely.

Cue 3:How did you feel about it?

Share your feelings before and after the change of opinion.
Reflect on how this change has impacted your views or actions moving forward.

Example

At first, I felt skeptical and resistant to the idea of online learning. However, after experiencing it, I felt relieved and excited about the flexibility it offered. I now advocate for a blended learning approach, combining both online and offline methods.

Conclusion

Summarize the key points of your experience and the change of opinion.
Mention any lasting effects this change has had on your life or studies.

Example

In conclusion, changing my opinion about online learning has opened up new avenues for my education. I now appreciate the benefits of technology in learning and continue to embrace it in my studies.

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 Responses

Providing vague or unclear answers can make it difficult for the examiner to understand your experience. Specific details help illustrate your point and make your response more engaging.

Tip

Use clear examples and specific details when describing the situation, the change, and your feelings to create a vivid picture.

2: Lack of Structure

Failing to organize your thoughts can lead to a confusing response. A well-structured answer helps convey your message more effectively and keeps the examiner engaged.

Tip

Follow a clear structure: introduce the situation, explain the change, and describe your feelings. This will help you stay focused.

Overly Emotional Language

Using overly emotional or dramatic language can detract from the clarity of your response. It's important to express your feelings but in a balanced way.

Tip

Aim for a calm and reflective tone when discussing your feelings about the change. This will make your response more relatable and credible.

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