Describe A Time When You Saw A Lot Of Plastic Waste: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

You should say

Where and when did you see the plastic waste?
Why was there a lot of plastic waste?
What did you do after you saw it?
And explain what your thoughts were about this.

82 unique answers with expert feedback

What impact do you think plastic waste has on the environment?

Plastic waste has a significant negative impact on the environment. It can harm wildlife, pollute oceans, and disrupt ecosystems. Animals often ingest plastic or become entangled in it, leading to injury or death. Additionally, plastics can take hundreds of years to decompose, contributing to long-term pollution.

How can individuals contribute to reducing plastic waste?

Individuals can contribute by reducing their use of single-use plastics, recycling properly, and participating in local clean-up efforts. Educating others about the importance of reducing plastic waste and supporting policies that promote sustainability can also make a difference.

What role do local authorities play in managing plastic waste?

Local authorities play a crucial role in managing plastic waste by implementing waste management policies, providing recycling facilities, and organizing clean-up initiatives. They can also raise awareness about the importance of reducing plastic waste and enforce regulations to minimize littering.

Band 7

00:00

I think one of the times where I noticed a lot of plastic waste was during my trip to Varanasi. Around six months back, I had been to Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh with my family. We'd gone there because my grandmother really wanted to visit Kashi. Then we had gone to Triveni Sangam, which is basically a point where three different rivers meet and that's usually one of the places that people visit when they go to Kashi. Over there, right before you enter the river, there were a lot of people selling flowers and these flowers were basically sold in plastic bags. Apart from flowers, there were a lot of other things being sold, candles for example, or even just stuff that you can basically feed fish in the rivers, all of these were being sold in plastic bags. And that is the reason why there was just so much waste over there because every time anyone would purchase the flowers or the candles or anything from any of these merchants who were selling these items, they would end up throwing those plastic bags near the river itself and that's why there was so much pollution. And I found it rather ironic because this is supposed to be a holy place, this is supposed to be a religious place and there still happened to be so much pollution just in terms of plastic waste, in terms of water pollution and also just air pollution coming from boats that were present in the river. And I think apart from all of this, another thing that genuinely triggered me during this trip was the vast range of child labour that existed. So overall, I think I was quite disheartened to see this.

Follow up questions

What do you think can be done to reduce plastic waste in tourist areas?

I believe that raising awareness among tourists and local vendors about the impact of plastic waste is crucial. Implementing strict regulations on plastic usage, promoting eco-friendly alternatives, and organizing regular clean-up drives can significantly help in reducing plastic waste in such areas.

How does plastic waste affect the environment and local communities?

Plastic waste can severely impact the environment by polluting water bodies, harming aquatic life, and disrupting ecosystems. For local communities, it can lead to health issues, loss of tourism revenue, and a decline in the quality of life, as pollution can deter visitors and affect their daily activities.

Have you noticed any initiatives to combat plastic waste in your area?

Yes, in my area, there have been several initiatives such as community clean-up events, educational programs in schools about recycling, and local businesses promoting reusable bags. These efforts aim to create a more sustainable environment and encourage people to reduce their plastic consumption.

Band 7

00:00

It was a cold winter night when I decided to go for a quick jogging session. I was at my campus at that time. I decided to take on the main road for jogging. It was a two lane road where one lane was dedicated for vehicles and the other was dedicated for students to walk. The road on which I was jogging, by its side there were many trees, bushes and all sorts of greenery that you could expect, flowers too. And as I was nearing the end of my jogging session, at the extreme end of the road, I could see a lot of plastic waste being accumulated. Seeing it disgusted me. I don't know if it disgusted me because of the transition that I faced from greenery to plastic waste or just because I couldn't understand how one part of the campus was so clean and the other part was so dirty. To summarize it, you could say it was a pleasant experience and also an unpleasant one at the same time.

Follow up questions

What do you think causes plastic waste to accumulate in certain areas?

I believe plastic waste accumulates due to a lack of awareness and responsibility among people. Many individuals do not dispose of their waste properly, and some may not realize the impact of littering. Additionally, inadequate waste management systems can contribute to this issue.

How do you think plastic waste affects the environment?

Plastic waste has a detrimental effect on the environment. It can harm wildlife, as animals may ingest plastic or become entangled in it. Furthermore, plastic pollution can disrupt ecosystems and lead to long-term damage to natural habitats, affecting biodiversity.

What measures can be taken to reduce plastic waste in public areas?

To reduce plastic waste, we can implement stricter regulations on plastic use, promote recycling programs, and increase public awareness campaigns about the importance of proper waste disposal. Additionally, providing more bins and encouraging community clean-up events can help keep areas clean.

Practice other cue cards

Talk about a historical building.

View answers

Describe a place in your city you have been to where you can see wildlife (eg, animals, birds, insects, plants)

View answers

Describe a public holiday that people enjoy.

View answers

Describe a city that is very interesting.

View answers

Describe a place in your hometown/city that is different from other places and that you enjoy visiting with your parents/friends.

View answers

Describe a place that you would like to learn the culture there (eg, a library, museum, theatre)

View answers

Describe Your Favourite Season

View answers

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

View answers

Describe A Person Who Likes To Grow Plants

View answers

Describe an interesting traditional story

View answers

Describe a natural place (e.g. parks, mountains)

View answers

Describe an important river/lake in your country

View answers

Describe A Crop You Are Familiar With

View answers

Describe a change that benefitted your neighborhood.

View answers

Describe a time when you saw something in the sky

View answers

Describe a person who helps to protect the environment

View answers

Describe a unique animal you've encountered.

View answers

Describe a time you were in a place where you didn't know the local language.

View answers

Describe a place that wasn't kept clean.

View answers

Describe Your Favourite Weather

View answers

Describe a time when the electricity suddenly went off

View answers

Describe A Traditional Product In Your Country

View answers

Describe an important plant in your country

View answers

Talk About A Traditional Object Of Your Country

View answers

Describe a place in your city you have been to where you can see wildlife (e.g. animals, birds, insects, plants)

View answers

Describe an old tree that you have seen.

View answers

Describe A Street Market In Your City

View answers

Describe A Foreign Country You Have Never Been To

View answers

Describe A Historical Place That You Know About

View answers

Describe A Poisonous Plant You Know About

View answers

Describe a park or a garden in your city

View answers

Describe A Festival That Is Important In Your Country

View answers

Describe a place where there was a lot of noise/ Describe a noisy place you have been to

View answers

Describe A Quiet Place

View answers

Describe a public park or garden.

View answers

Band 7

00:00

There was one beach in my hometown, which I used to visit all the time during my childhood. But recently, it has been infested with a lot of toxins and plastic waste, which made me realize that it is our responsibility as humans to stop that from happening. People are careless and they do not think about saving the environment and keeping it clean. They do not understand that plastic is non-biodegradable and it is not safe for the planet. We can incorporate some habits into our daily life, which can stop this from happening. They can be using a dustbin or putting the wrapper into your pocket and then throwing it away later. It is the small detail that counts, which can make the world a better place. Thank you.

Follow up questions

What are some common sources of plastic waste in your area?

In my area, common sources of plastic waste include single-use bags, plastic bottles, and food wrappers. Many people tend to use these items without considering their environmental impact, leading to significant littering, especially in public spaces like parks and beaches.

How can communities work together to reduce plastic waste?

Communities can organize clean-up drives, promote recycling programs, and educate residents about the importance of reducing plastic usage. Additionally, local governments can implement policies to limit single-use plastics and encourage businesses to adopt sustainable practices.

What role do you think education plays in addressing plastic waste?

Education plays a crucial role in raising awareness about the harmful effects of plastic waste. By teaching people, especially children, about environmental responsibility and sustainable practices, we can foster a culture of care for our planet and encourage proactive behaviors towards waste management.

Band 7

00:00

This was in Bangalore near K.R. Market. The area was a dump area, waste dump area, which was being segregated by many waste picking women. The complaints by the women were that the waste generated through online delivery services such as X and Y were creating much larger plastic waste and segregating it is more difficult because of the fact that many people would not bother to throw away the food or leftovers as the food is expired. I found the situation very dreadful and inhumane as many waste picking women have to deal with the already existing segregation criteria which means that plastic has to be separated into six different categories along with cleaning other people's leftover food. This is double work for them and this needs an end. Hence I took a video to share on Instagram to create an awareness on what is happening in these dump yards.

Follow up questions

What impact do you think plastic waste has on the environment?

Plastic waste severely impacts the environment by polluting land and water bodies, harming wildlife, and contributing to climate change. It takes hundreds of years to decompose, leading to long-term ecological damage. The presence of plastic in natural habitats disrupts ecosystems and poses health risks to animals and humans.

How can individuals contribute to reducing plastic waste?

Individuals can reduce plastic waste by using reusable bags, bottles, and containers, avoiding single-use plastics, and supporting businesses that prioritize sustainable practices. Additionally, spreading awareness about the importance of recycling and proper waste disposal can encourage others to take action.

What role do you think government policies play in managing plastic waste?

Government policies are crucial in managing plastic waste. They can implement regulations to limit plastic production, promote recycling programs, and enforce penalties for illegal dumping. By investing in waste management infrastructure and public education campaigns, governments can significantly reduce plastic pollution.

Show all 82 answers

Cue 1:Where and when did you see the plastic waste?

Begin by describing the location where you encountered the plastic waste, such as a beach, park, or riverbank.
Mention the time of year or specific occasion, like a festival or holiday, to give context to your experience.

Example

I saw a lot of plastic waste last summer at Juhu Beach in Mumbai. It was during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival, a time when many people visit the beach to immerse idols. Unfortunately, after the celebrations, the beach was littered with plastic bags, bottles, and food wrappers.

Cue 2:Why was there a lot of plastic waste?

Explain the reasons behind the accumulation of plastic waste, such as lack of awareness or inadequate waste disposal facilities.
You can also mention the cultural practices that contribute to the problem, like the use of single-use plastics during festivals.

Example

The reason for the excessive plastic waste was mainly due to the large number of visitors who brought food and drinks in plastic containers. Many people were unaware of the environmental impact of their actions, and there were not enough bins available for proper disposal.

Cue 3:What did you do after you saw it?

Share your immediate reaction upon seeing the plastic waste and any actions you took.
Mention if you participated in any clean-up efforts or raised awareness about the issue.

Example

After seeing the plastic waste, I felt compelled to do something. I joined a local group that was organizing a beach clean-up the following weekend. We collected bags full of plastic and other debris, and it felt good to contribute to the environment.

Cue 4:And explain what your thoughts were about this.

Reflect on your feelings regarding the situation and the broader implications of plastic waste.
Discuss any changes in your behavior or perspective that resulted from this experience.

Example

Seeing the plastic waste made me really concerned about our environment. It made me realize how important it is to reduce plastic usage and promote recycling. Since then, I’ve started carrying my own reusable bags and bottles to minimize my plastic footprint.

Conclusion

Example

In conclusion, witnessing the plastic waste at Juhu Beach was an eye-opening experience. It highlighted the urgent need for awareness and action regarding plastic pollution. I believe that if we all take small steps, we can make a significant difference in protecting our environment.

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. Avoid general statements that do not provide specific details about the location or situation of the plastic waste.

Tip

Be specific about where and when you saw the plastic waste. Use descriptive language to paint a clear picture for the examiner.

2: Lack of Personal Reflection

Failing to share your personal thoughts can make your response less engaging. It's important to express how the experience affected you emotionally or intellectually.

Tip

Include your feelings and thoughts about the plastic waste. Explain why it was significant to you and what you learned from the experience.

Ignoring the Cause

Not addressing why there was a lot of plastic waste can lead to an incomplete answer. Understanding the cause adds depth to your response.

Tip

Discuss the reasons behind the plastic waste, such as local events or habits. This shows your awareness of environmental issues and enhances your answer.

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.