Describe something you own that you want to replace?: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

You should say

What it is
Where it is
How you got it
Explain why you want to replace it.

21 unique answers with expert feedback

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Cue 1:What it is

Begin by clearly identifying the item you want to replace.
Provide a brief description of its features and condition.

Example

The item I want to replace is my old smartphone. It's a basic model that I've been using for over four years now. While it still functions, the battery life has significantly decreased, and it often lags when I try to use apps.

Cue 2:Where it is

Mention where you usually keep this item.
Describe the significance of its location in your daily life.

Example

I keep my smartphone on my bedside table when I’m at home. It’s the first thing I check in the morning and the last thing I look at before going to sleep. It’s essential for my daily communication and staying updated.

Cue 3:How you got it

Share the story of how you acquired this item.
Include details about any special memories or occasions related to it.

Example

I got this smartphone as a gift from my parents on my birthday. It was a special moment for me because it was my first smartphone, and I felt very excited to finally have one. I remember how thrilled I was to explore all its features.

Cue 4:Explain why you want to replace it

Discuss the reasons for wanting to replace the item, focusing on its limitations.
Mention any specific features you are looking for in a new item.

Example

I want to replace my smartphone because it can no longer keep up with my needs. The camera quality is poor, and I often miss capturing important moments. I’m looking for a new phone with a better camera, longer battery life, and faster processing speed to enhance my daily experience.

Conclusion

Summarize your feelings about the item you want to replace.
Express your anticipation for the new item you plan to get.

Example

In conclusion, while my old smartphone has served me well, it’s time for an upgrade. I’m excited about the prospect of getting a new phone that will not only meet my current needs but also make my daily life more enjoyable.

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: Being Vague About the Item

Candidates often provide unclear descriptions of the item they want to replace. This can lead to confusion and a lack of detail in their response.

Tip

Be specific about the item. Use descriptive words to explain what it is and its features to engage the listener.

2: Neglecting the 'How You Got It' Part

Many candidates skip explaining how they acquired the item, which can make their answer feel incomplete and less personal.

Tip

Include a brief story or context about how you got the item. This adds depth and makes your response more interesting.

Focusing Too Much on Negatives

Some candidates concentrate only on the negative aspects of the item they want to replace, which can make their answer sound unbalanced.

Tip

While explaining why you want to replace it, also mention any positive experiences you had with the item to create a well-rounded response.

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Answer

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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.

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Reported by

Anonymous student Band 7.5

CBD Belapur Test Centre, Navi Mumbai

Answer

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