Describe an old tree that you have seen.: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

You should say

What tree is it & where?
How old is the tree? What is it used for?
What do you like about it?

36 unique answers with expert feedback

What other trees do you remember from your childhood?

Apart from the mango tree, I remember a big banyan tree near my house. We used to play hide and seek around it. It was a gathering spot for kids, and we would often climb its branches. The banyan tree was a symbol of friendship and fun during our childhood.

How do you think trees impact the environment?

Trees play a crucial role in the environment by providing oxygen, improving air quality, and supporting wildlife. They also help in preventing soil erosion and maintaining the water cycle. Additionally, trees can provide shade and cooling, making urban areas more livable.

Have you ever planted a tree? What was the experience like?

Yes, I planted a small sapling in my backyard a few years ago. It was a rewarding experience to see it grow over time. I felt a sense of responsibility and connection to nature. Watching it thrive gave me joy, and I hope it will provide shade and beauty for years to come.

Band 7

00:00

I am going to describe a tree that I have been seeing since my childhood, which stands right outside a temple that is very near my house. It is an immensely old and towering banyan tree that spreads its branches wide. It is not uncommon to see a banyan tree outside a temple, especially in our culture. We are seen as protectors of the temple and of course it provides its shade and greenery for all those who come under it. Ever since I was little, when I was visiting the temple, I have seen this banyan tree standing there acting as a protector to whoever stands under it. It is one of my core memories as even though I did not pay much attention to it, it was always there, a silent listener and a very peaceful observer. Even today, whenever I go back home to visit, I often look at that tree and it gives me a glimpse back into the past of my childhood, where I used to sit under that tree with my mom and dad and just relish the experience. I believe even in the future, there might be children, even my great-grandchildren, who visit the tree and sit under it for its shade.

Follow up questions

What emotions do you associate with the banyan tree?

The banyan tree evokes a sense of nostalgia and peace for me. It reminds me of my childhood memories spent with my family, creating a warm feeling of safety and comfort. Every time I see it, I feel a connection to my past and the love shared under its shade.

How do you think trees like this banyan contribute to the environment?

Trees like the banyan play a crucial role in the environment by providing shade, improving air quality, and supporting local wildlife. They also help in maintaining the ecosystem balance and offer a habitat for various birds and insects, contributing to biodiversity.

Have you noticed any changes in the tree over the years?

Yes, over the years, I've noticed that the banyan tree has grown even larger and more majestic. Its branches have spread wider, and it has become a more significant landmark in the area. However, it also shows signs of aging, which makes me appreciate its resilience and strength even more.

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.

I have fond memories of climbing trees and playing in parks. I remember spending time with friends under the shade of trees, having picnics, and enjoying the sounds of nature. These experiences fostered a deep appreciation for the beauty of nature.

Show all 36 answers

Cue 1:What tree is it & where?

Begin by identifying the type of tree and its location. Mention if it’s in a park, near your home, or at a historical site.
Provide some context about why you were there and what made you notice the tree.

Example

The old tree I want to describe is a magnificent Banyan tree located in the heart of my hometown, near the local temple. I often visit this place for peace and reflection, and the tree has always caught my attention with its sprawling branches and thick roots.

Cue 2:How old is the tree? What is it used for?

Estimate the age of the tree based on local knowledge or personal experience. You can also mention any historical significance.
Discuss what the tree is used for, whether it provides shade, is part of a local tradition, or serves as a habitat for wildlife.

Example

I believe this Banyan tree is over a hundred years old. It is not only a beautiful sight but also serves as a gathering spot for locals, especially during festivals when people come to seek blessings and enjoy the shade it provides.

Cue 3:What do you like about it?

Share your personal feelings about the tree. What emotions does it evoke in you?
Mention any specific features of the tree that you find particularly appealing, such as its size, shape, or the atmosphere it creates.

Example

What I love most about this tree is its grandeur and the sense of history it embodies. The way its branches stretch out creates a serene atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for meditation. I often sit under it to read or simply enjoy the tranquility it offers.

Conclusion

Summarize your thoughts about the tree and its importance in your life or community.
You can also reflect on the broader significance of trees in nature and their role in our environment.

Example

In conclusion, this old Banyan tree is not just a part of my hometown; it symbolizes the connection between nature and our community. It reminds me of the importance of preserving such natural wonders for future generations.

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 tree, its location, or its characteristics.

Tip

Be specific about the tree's location, age, and unique features. Use descriptive language to paint a clear picture for the examiner.

2: Ignoring Personal Connection

Failing to express your personal feelings or experiences related to the tree can make your answer less engaging. Personal connections add depth to your response.

Tip

Share a personal story or memory associated with the tree. Explain why it is meaningful to you and what you appreciate about it.