education speaking topic cue card

Education: IELTS Cue Card Topics

The ‘Education’ category in the IELTS Speaking section typically includes questions revolving around academic experiences, knowledge sharing, and educational systems. Examples include ‘Describe a memorable lesson from school’, ‘Describe a favorite teacher’, or ‘Describe a challenging educational experience’.

To practice with past questions, please look at Speaking Part 2 in more detail.

Unveiling ‘Education’ in the IELTS Speaking Section

Discussing education in the IELTS Speaking section allows you to demonstrate your capacity to reflect on past experiences, express ideas, and discuss abstract topics. It’s a chance to showcase your ability to use sophisticated language and structures and convey complex thoughts.

Explore Various IELTS Speaking Part 2 Cue Card Questions and Answers.

Guide to Discussing ‘Education’ in the IELTS Speaking Section

When discussing education, remember to express your thoughts clearly and logically. You might talk about your own experiences in school or university, your favorite subjects, the teaching methods you found effective, or how your education has impacted your life. Use varied vocabulary and grammatical structures to discuss these topics.

Learn How To Answer IELTS Speaking Test Part 2 : CUE Cards.

Sample ‘Education’ Topics

Here are some examples of ‘Education’ topics you might encounter:

Describe a Memorable Lesson from School: Discuss a lesson you distinctly remember from your school days, explaining what made it memorable and how it has impacted you.
Describe a Favorite Teacher: Share about a teacher who has significantly influenced your educational journey, talking about their teaching style, personality traits, and the lessons you learned from them.
Describe a Challenging Educational Experience: Talk about an educational challenge you faced, how you dealt with it, and what you learned from the experience.

Different Cue Card Topics

Personal Experiences: IELTS Cue Card Topics People and Personalities: IELTS Cue Card Topics Places: IELTS Cue Card Topics Objects: IELTS Cue Card Topics Events: IELTS Cue Card Topics Experiences and Achievements: IELTS Cue Card Topics Hobbies and Interests: IELTS Cue Card Topics Plans and Dreams: IELTS Cue Card Topics Nature and Environment: IELTS Cue Card Topics Education: IELTS Cue Card Topics Work and Careers: IELTS Cue Card Topics Technology: IELTS Cue Card Topics Health and Fitness: IELTS Cue Card Topics Food and Drinks: IELTS Cue Card Topics

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IELTS Speaking Cue Card Topics with Samples Answers (2024)

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IELTS Speaking Cue Card Topics with Samples Answers (2024)

Predicted Cue Cards Topics 2024

“Unlock the secrets of acing the IELTS cue cards with this comprehensive guide. Discover expert tips and strategies to conquer cue cards for IELTS speaking. “

Let's be real, the IELTS Speaking test can be a nerve-wracking experience, especially when you're handed that little cue card. But fear not, my friends! Today, we're going to dive into the depths of the IELTS cue cards.

The IELTS Cue Cards are the second task in the speaking section of the IELTS examination. While answering this question, you are expected to have some skills and one of the skills is framing the answers based on the topic.

What is a Cue?

A cue is a prompt or a signal that serves as a reminder or a guide for an action. In the context of the IELTS Speaking test, a cue is a short phrase or sentence that introduces the topic you'll be speaking about.

What is an IELTS Cue Card?

A cue card is a small card containing a cue or a prompt, along with specific instructions or questions related to the given topic. In the IELTS Speaking test, you'll receive a cue card for the second part of the test, known as the "Long Turn."

List of IELTS Cue Card Topics

The cue card samples given below are categorized according to different topics. These are the latest cue card topics that appeared in actual tests with answers. We've done this to enable you to browse through the list and pick a speaking cue cards of your choice.

These are the cue cards that asks you about things you like.

Describe your favourite Picture or Photography you like
A song that has special meaning to you
a story/ novel interests you
Describe A Special or favourite Toy you liked in your childhood
Describe a favourite song that you like
Describe a restaurant you like(to go to)/ that impresses you
Exciting Sport
Describe an Indoor Game that you would like to play
Describe an area of science you like or interested in
Describe An free time activity you like to do after study or work

More Favourite Cue Cards >>

These are the cue cards that asks you to talk about events that occurred in the past/present and future.

A Subject at School
Things You Want to Buy in the Future
An age/stage in your life you enjoyed most

More Time Based Cue Cards>>

These are type of cue cards where you will asked to about your friend or a guide.

A person You Admire/Love Essay
Describe someone you consider a good leader
Describe one of your Family Member You Spend The Most Time With
An Occasion You Unexpectedly Met Someone for the first time
Describe Someone in the news you like to meet
Someone/Something Made A Lot Of Noise
An Older Person Who You Admire
A Good/Best Friend
Describe an Old Friend
Describe a Family Member
An Interesting Neighbor You Like
talk about an interesting conversation you had with a stranger
A Person Speak A Second (Foreign) Language Well
A Time When You Waited For Something or someone to arrive

More Person Cue cards >>

In these type of cue cards you will asked to talk about your family.

Describe Your Family
Describe a family event you are looking forward to
Describe a family picnic or tour you have had

More Family Cue cards >>

These are the cue cards in which you will be asked about things like objects.

Describe a picture or photograph in your home
A Gift You Gave That Took A Long Time To Choose
Describe a piece of electronic equipment that you find useful
A Time You Borrowed Something useful
A house/apartment you like to live in
A Product You Were Happy With
An item of clothing that someone bought for you
Describe a painting or work of art
Describe a time someone or something made noise

More Object Cue cards>>

These are the cue cards in which you will be asked to talk about the places which you are going to visit or already visited.

A Place you remember well that is Full of Color
A country you have not been to yet
A street that you like to visit
Describe a polluted place
A place near water you visited
Describe a place where you often go to relax

More Place Cue cards>>

WORK/STUDY:

In the following list of items, you’ll find cue cards related to work and study.

A Project at Work or Homework Assignment
A Course You Like to Study and found useful
Describe a piece of work you did quickly
Describe your Dream/ideal/Perfect Job
Describe something that you want to learn more

More Work/Study Cue cards>>

EMOTIONS/ASPIRATIONS:

These are the cue cards in which you will be asked to talk about different kind of emotions that one feels and various aspirations.

Ambition You Have Not Yet Achieved
Describe something A Child that Made You Laugh
A Paid Job You/A Friend Enjoyed Doing
An experience you had as a member of a team
A disagreement you had with a friend
a recent activity or event that made you happy
a difficult decision you made in your life
A TV Program that Made You Laugh
A Goal that You Have
Describe the Best and exciting experience in your life
Describe an exciting or Interesting Thing You Did
Describe an Advertisement which you found very persuasive
A Time You Used Your Imagination
A Time You Need to Use Imagination
A book that had a major influence on you
Describe a success your friend has had or achieved
A special and memorable meal you have had
A situation made you angry
Describe an experience you spent time with a child that you know
A positive experience when you were a teenager
Describe an unusual/ an unforgettable or memorable meal
Describe a time you were friendly to someone you didn’t like
Describe an ambition you have not achieved yet

More Emotions Cue cards>>

These are the cue cards in which you will be asked to talk about certain occasions that you attended and celebrated.

An Occasion When You Got Up Very Early in the morning
Describe a birthday party celebration that you attended

More Occasion Cue Cards>>

In these cue cards, you will be asked to talk about a past memory/dream that you recall.

Describe A Teacher From Your Past That You Remember
Describe a Photograph That You Remember
Describe a Garden You Remember Visiting
Describe a dream you remember well

More Recall Cue cards>>

These are the cue cards in which you will be asked to talk about things that are popular whether it be tangible or intangible.

Describe a story popular in your country
Describe A Popular Musical Instrument In Your Country

More Popular Cue cards>>

These are the cue cards in which you will be asked to talk about a certain activity that can be anything from gym to sport.

Describe a Leisure Activity (A Game, Hobby, or Sport) That is Popular in your Country
Describe an Indoor Game you have Enjoyed Playing in your Free Time
Describe an indoor game that you played in your childhood

More Activity Cue Cards>>

SOMETHING IMPORTANT:

While solving these cue cards you will be asked to talk about something important.

Describe An Important Change In Your Life
Describe Something You Own Which is Very Important to You
Describe a Festival that is Important in your Country

More Something Important Cue cards>>

In the below-mentioned cue cards, you will be asked to talk about life and different parts of it.

Describe an Invention that has Changed People's Life
Describe life in a particular period of history
Describe a typical day in your life when you were a child

More Life Cue cards >>

These are the cue cards in which you will be asked to talk about the places that you are going to visit or have already visited.

A Memorable Event from your School Days
Describe an event you felt unhappy about

More Event Cue cards >>

For these cue cards, you will be asked to talk about ‘Someone’ in different situational senses.

Describe something kind that someone did for you
Talk about a situation when you taught something to someone

More Someone Cue cards>>

WHO YOU ADMIRE:

In these cue cards you will be asked to talk about someone you admire.

Describe An Artist or Entertainer You Admire
Describe the person in your family who you most admire

More Who You Admire Cue cards>>

These are the cue cards in which you will be asked to talk about things that are useful.

Describe a useful plant you know about
Describe a Useful Website You Have Visited

More Useful Cue cards>>

These are the cue cards in which you will be asked to talk about a certain app/mobile.

A program or an app in your computer/ phone
Describe An App You Use On Your Mobile Phone

More App/Mobile Cue cards >>

These are the cue cards in which you will be asked to talk about different facets of business.

Describe A Successful Small Company or Business that you know
Describe a Successful Businessman you know

More Business Cue Cards>>

For these cue cards, you will be asked to talk about movies in different situational settings.

Describe A Movie or performance You Recently Watched
Film/Movie that you Watched and did not Enjoy

More Movie Cue cards >>

In the below-mentioned cue cards, you will be asked to talk about a famous person/thing.

Describe A Famous Person that You Are Interested In
Describe a famous building/landmark

More Famous Cue Cards>>

INTERESTING:

These are the cue cards in which you will be asked to talk about things that you’re interested in.

Describe an interesting talk or a lecture you have heard
Describe an interesting story you have read or heard

More Interesting Cue cards>>

For these cue cards, you will be asked to talk about different sorts of situations related to health.

Describe a health problem you once had
Describe something healthy you enjoy doing

More Health Cue Cards>>

So did you check all of the above IELTS speaking examples with answers topics? I believe if you do then you must’ve probably grasped the essence of cue cards for IELTS Speaking.

How to Approach an IELTS Cue Card?

When faced with an IELTS cue card during the Speaking test, it's essential to follow these steps:

Read the cue card carefully: Take a few seconds to read and understand the topic, instructions, and questions provided on the cue card.
Plan your response: Use the one-minute preparation time wisely to organize your thoughts and structure your response.
Speak fluently and coherently: When the examiner signals you to start, begin speaking confidently and clearly. Aim to cover all aspects of the topic mentioned on the cue card.
Use relevant vocabulary and grammar: Demonstrate your language proficiency by using a wide range of appropriate vocabulary and accurate grammar structures.
Manage your time: Be mindful of the time limit (typically 1-2 minutes) and ensure you complete your response within the allotted time.

Different Parts of the IELTS Speaking Test

The IELTS Speaking test consists of three parts:

Introduction and Interview: This section involves answering general questions about yourself, your family, work, studies, or interests.

Long Turn: In this part, you'll receive a cue card with a topic and specific instructions. You'll have one minute to prepare your response and then speak for 1-2 minutes.

Discussion: This section involves a more abstract discussion on the topic introduced in Part 2. The examiner will ask you additional questions related to the topic to assess your ability to express ideas and opinions.

Alright, let's wrap this up with a bang! Mastering the IELTS cue card is no easy feat, but with the right strategies and a sprinkle of confidence, you'll be unstoppable. Remember, the key is to embrace the challenge, channel your inner wordsmith, and let your unique personality shine through.

OTHER CUE CARDS:

A Law About Environment
An article about healthy living that you read from magazine or online
A film you watched at home or in a cinema
The First Time You Used a Foreign Language to communicate
local news people interested in
Describe Something you learned in a place or from someone
A Meal You Had With Your Friends in a restaurant
A Sport You Have Learned
Describe A Family You Know
Describe a Skill
Describe a Natural Landscape scenery
Describe a bicycle/Bike/ Car Trip
Describe a language other than English you would like to learn
Describe a Game/ Sport
Describe A Big/Large Company you are interested in
A time you miss an appointment
Something you did which was a waste of time
An important letter or email you wrote
Art or craft activity you did at school
Describe Something you do that keeps you fit and Healthy
Describe a time when you were looked at the sky

Other Cue cards >>

Frequently Asked Questions

How many points will a cue card have?

How do I answer a cue card?

How do I change a cue card question?

Do I get to use ‘umms’ and ‘aahs’?

Does the examiner know what is in my cue card?

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IELTS Speaking Cue Cards Topics & Samples with Answers 2024

6 mins read 189877 Views

By Prabhadri Suman | Updated On - 2024-01-11 08:28:23

Explore the latest IELTS Cue Card topics and model answers from 2024 exams. Master the speaking syllabus and learn quick strategies for scoring Band 7+ in just 60 seconds.

Topics Covered:

What is a Cue Card?
Parts of IELTS Speaking Test
How are IELTS Cue Cards Marked?
IELTS Speaking Cue Cards Topics 2024

IELTS Cue cards Topics Section wise

Ielts speaking cards questions and answers, speaking part 2 cue card example, ielts part 3 questions and answers, do ielts cue cards repeat, how can i get 7 band in ielts cue cards speaking.

IELTS Speaking Cue Card is the second task of IELTS speaking test. During this task, you are required to effectively communicate on a specific topic provided in the IELTS cue card. Before speaking, you are given one minute to prepare. The test evaluates the candidate's pronunciation, fluency, grammar, and vocabulary as a crucial part of the test.

This article will discover everything you need to know about IELTS speaking cue cards 2024 , including sample questions, preparation tips, and more.

What is a Cue Card?

An IELTS speaking cue card is a task card used in the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) Speaking test, particularly in Part 2. The cue card contains a particular topic with a set of guidelines that the test taker should talk and will be given 1 minute of preparation time to think and generate ideas. Then candidates need to speak for about 2-3 minutes until the examiner asks them to stop.

This part of the IELTS test assesses the candidate's ability to speak at length on a given topic, organize their thoughts, use language appropriately, and show a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures.

Parts of IELTS Speaking Test

The speaking test takes around 11-14 minutes and are divided into 3 parts:

Introduction & Interview: At the beginning of the interview, the interviewer will usually ask questions about generic topics such as family, education, hobbies, and work. This part lasts four to five minutes.
Speak on a cue card: At first, the test-taker will be given 1 minute time to jot down notes on the topic and then need to speaks on the topic for at least 2 minutes until the examiner not ask to stop. After that, follow-up queries are asked about the same subject. In this phase, the candidate's ability to express himself without hesitation is measured in addition to his language ability. Usually, this lasts for three to four minutes.
Long conversations: Examiner will ask questions about the cue card topic. This part of the interview lasts for 4-5 minutes.

Read also: IELTS exam dates and IELTS exam fees in India

How are IELTS Cue Cards Marked?

During the 11-15 minute speaking test, the examiner assesses the candidate's language skills based on four criteria:

Fluency and Coherence (FC): The candidate's pronunciation of words, intonation, clarity and single phonetic sounds will be evaluated.
Lexical Resource (LR): The candidate's vocabulary proficiency is assessed by checking whether she employs different words to express the same idea. Even paraphrasing is accounted for.
Grammar (GR): The structure of sentences and how they are formed are evaluated. This must not sound forced and must be accurate.
Pronunciation (PR): Checks whether the candidate can speak fluently and coherently or not. Pronouns, conjunctions, and other grammatical devices are tested in addition to the candidate's ability to speak for a long time.

The examiner assesses the candidate's ability to speak fluently without repetition or interruption, the range of vocabulary used, the grammatical accuracy, and the correct pronunciation of English words. Each factor is assigned a value, and the cumulative value forms the overall score. The criterion is scored between 0-9, and the average of the four scores is calculated to obtain the band score.

For example, if a candidate scores 6 in fluency and coherence, 6.5 in lexical resource, 7 in grammar, and 6 in pronunciation, the total score is 25.5. Dividing this by 4 gives an average score of 6.3, the band score.

IELTS Speaking Cue Cards Topics 2024

Many candidates are intimidated by the speaking portion of the exam because they need to familiarize themselves with the types of questions that will be asked. Because of this, their self-confidence is lowered and they pause more frequently, resulting in a lower band score.

Here is a list of the latest IELTS cue card 2024 for the IELTS exam in 2024 for candidates to practice beforehand and self-assess. This will enable them to grasp what is required in each section. On the other hand, memorization is not beneficial and should be avoided at all costs.

List Of Expected Speaking Cue Cards 2024

A part-time job you would wish to pursue abroad
The shopping experience in a street market
An interesting thing you saw on social media
A city where you want to live in the future
Talk about your favorite singer
A piece of local news that intrigued you
A new public-private building you would want to visit
Moving to a new school or shifting to a new home
One of the most difficult things you have done
A book that you enjoy reading
A café you would like to visit
A leisure activity that you would want to try near or in the sea
Art and craft activity that you had at school
An occasion where you did not use your time properly
A quiet place you would like to visit
A movie you liked
A time when you helped your friend
Describe a time when you were late for some work
A company that you wish to be employed at
A website that you often use
An idol who you looked up to when you were a child
A risk that led to a positive outcome
A gadget that is your favorite
A movie that is your inspiration
An experience that you found the most exciting
A practical skill you have learned
A family member with whom you bond well with
An aspect of science that interests you
A short journey that you had taken but ended up disliking it
Experience of visiting a farm
Your favorite author
A song or poem on the history of the country
The habit your friend has and why you would like to develop that
Explain what would you do if you won a large prize money
An advertisement that remained in your memory
Experience in solving a puzzle
A creative personality whose work you look up to
A friend who has played a pivotal role in your life
Explain why you admire the certain businessman
A poisonous plant that exists in your homeland or country
An electronic device you wish to own
Describe an occasion which you were afraid of
An ambition that you have harnessed over a long period of time
Description of a dream that you wish to come true
An experience where you had been cheated
An important decision you made
Your favorite politician
An application made through AI
A pandemic that you experienced
A time which made you revisit your opinion and change it

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Check out the best cue cards for IELTS 2024 that you must consider:

IELTS Speaking Cue Cards Topics & Samples with Answers 2024

These are IELTS speaking topics 2024 that ask you about things you like.

Describe your favourite picture or photography you like
A song that has special meaning to you
A story/ novel interests you
Describe a special or favourite toy you liked in your childhood
Describe a favourite song that you like
Describe a restaurant you like (to go to)/ that impresses you
Exciting sport
Describe an indoor game that you would like to play
Describe an area of science you like or interested in
Describe a free time activity you like to do after study or work
What Lake, River, or Sea Do You Like to Visit?
Describe a museum you've been to and enjoyed.
Describe a culture from abroad that you admire.
Describe your favourite swimming spot.
What is your favorite newspaper or magazine?
Describe a writer you would like to meet
Describe a type of clothes you like
Describe your favourite furniture at home
Describe your favourite shop
Describe a speech that somebody gave and you liked
Describe your favorite drink
Describe your favourite season
Describe a shop you often go to
Describe a TV or Radio Presenter you like

These cards provide prompts to discuss occurrences that have happened in the past, are happening in the present, and will take place in the future.

A subject at school
Things you want to buy in the future
An age/stage in your life you enjoyed most
Which family member do you spend the most time with
Time You Used a Foreign Language to communicate
Time when you failed to keep an appointment
something you did that was time-wasting
Describe an occasion when you were staring at the sky
Tell about a time when you received good news.
Talk about a moment when you were extremely busy.
Describe a time when you felt incredibly scared.
Tell about a time you got lost.
Share an occasion when you answered a call from a stranger.
Describe A time whenever you borrowed anything
Share an instance when you used the internet to find a solution.
Describe a time when you were stuck in a traffic jam
Describe a time when you had to go to a hospital or see a doctor
Describe a situation (or time) when you received some useful advice
A time when someone apologized to you
Describe a time you had to change your plan
Describe a time you received terrible service

These are types of cue cards where you will ask about your friend or a guide.

A person you admire/love essay
Describe someone you consider a good leader
Describe one of your family member you spend the most time with
An occasion you unexpectedly met someone for the first time
Describe someone in the news you like to meet
Someone/something made a lot of noise
An older person who you admire
A good/best friend
Describe an old friend
Describe a family member
An interesting neighbor you like
Talk about an interesting conversation you had with a stranger
A person speak a second (foreign) language well
A time when you waited for something or someone to arrive
Describe a person you recently met
Describe a Person who has done a lot of Work to Help People
Describe a renowned person you would like to meet
Describe a person who is friendly to other
Talk About a Person who Inspired you
A person with foreign language proficiency
Describe a person who has lived with you in the past.
Describe a person you have seen who is attractive or handsome
Describe a person with interesting ideas or viewpoints.
Name a person who supported you in achieving a goal.
Describe a historical person.
Describe An Interesting Person You Know
Describe a polite person you met

On these kinds of cue cards, you will be asked to discuss your family.

Describe your family
Describe a family event you are looking forward to
Describe a family picnic or tour you have had
Mention A Family You Know.
Talk about a hobby someone in your family has
Share an experience of teaching your friend or family member
Describe a Family Member
Describe a family not your own that you like

These cue cards will query you about various items such as objects.

Describe a picture or photograph in your home
A gift you gave that took a long time to choose
Describe a piece of electronic equipment that you find useful
A time you borrowed something useful
A house/apartment you like to live in
A product you were happy with
An item of clothing that someone bought for you
Describe a painting or work of art
Describe a time someone or something made noise
Describe an electronic machine you want to buy
Describe an antique item at your home
Describe a time when you misplaced something.
Describe Something you want to Buy but can’t Afford
Describe Something You Liked Very Much Which You Bought for your Home
Describe Something Colourful that you Bought in the Past
Describe a thing that you bought and felt pleased
Something you Bought that you were not happy with
Describe something you bought but you do not often use

These are the cards that prompt you to talk about places that you plan to go to or have already been.

A place you remember well that is full of color
A country you have not been to yet
A street that you like to visit
Describe a polluted place
A place near water you visited
Describe a place where you often go to relax
Describe a city or a town
Describe a place that has a special meaning to you
Describe a place that you have visited and particularly liked
Describe a place you would like to visit
Describe a peaceful place you have visited
Describe a transportation problem in your city/town
Describe a place you know that has a beautiful environment
Describe a historical place that you know
Describe an interesting place in your home town
Describe a foreign country you have never been to
Describe a house/apartment you like to live in
Describe a city you want to visit in the future
Describe a country you have visited
Describe a trip which was not up to your expectations
Describe a place where you are able to relax
Describe a quiet place
Describe a café that you have been to/that you like
Describe a shop just opened in your hometown
Describe your ideal house
Describe A Hotel You Have Stayed In
Describe a Street in your Hometown that you know well
Describe a tourist attraction that you have visited
Describe a house/ apartment that someone you know lives in
Describe a library you have visited
Describe a Place that your Parents Took You To

Work/study:

A project at work or homework assignment
A course you like to study and found useful
Describe a piece of work you did quickly
Describe your dream/ideal/perfect job
Describe something that you want to learn more
Describe an educational tv programme that you have seen
Describe your study room
Describe a school you have studied in
Describe an idea you had for improving something at work or college
Describe an unusual job
Describe a seminar or workshop you have attended
Describe a subject that you did not like in the past, but now you like it
Describe a project that you were once involved in
Describe a well-paid job you would like to have in the future
Describe a job your grandparents did
Describe a subject you used to dislike but now have interest in
Describe a free day off study or work
Describe a part-time job you have ever done
Describe an Academic Success that you Achieved

Emotions/aspirations:

Ambition you have not yet achieved
Describe something a child that made you laugh
A paid job you/a friend enjoyed doing
An experience you had as a member of a team
A disagreement you had with a friend
A recent activity or event that made you happy
A difficult decision you made in your life
A tv program that made you laugh
A goal that you have
Describe the best and exciting experience in your life
Describe an exciting or interesting thing you did
Describe an advertisement which you found very persuasive
A time you use your imagination
A time you need to use imagination
A book that had a major influence on you
Describe a success your friend has had or achieved
A special and memorable meal you have had
A situation made you angry
Describe an experience you spent time with a child that you know
A positive experience when you were a teenager
Describe an unusual/ an unforgettable or memorable meal
Describe a time you were friendly to someone you didn’t like
Describe an ambition you have not achieved yet
Describe how you behaved in a stressful situation
Describe a song that has special meaning for you
Describe a piece of information that you think is not correct
Describe a decision which you have made that you feel was wrong
Happy Marriage

Occasions :

An occasion when you got up very early in the morning
Describe a birthday party celebration that you attended
Describe a party that you enjoyed
Describe an occasion when you received good service from a company
Describe an occasion when you got up extremely early
Describe an occasion when you wore your best clothes
An occasion a home appliance broke down
Describe an occasion you borrowed something from somebody
Describe a teacher from your past that you remember
Describe a photograph that you remember
Describe a garden you remember visiting
Describe a dream you remember well
Describe a childhood memory you have
Describe a happy childhood event you remember
Describe a journey that you remember well
Describe a new year celebration that you still remember
Describe something you remember from your school or college days
Describe a rainy day you can remember
Describe an accident you heard about
Describe a pleasant surprise you had
Describe a story popular in your country
Describe a popular musical instrument in your country
Describe a famous celebrity from your country
Describe a popular sport in your country
Describe a popular event in your country
Describe a leisure activity (a game, hobby, or sport) that is popular in your country
Describe an indoor game you have enjoyed playing in your free time
Describe an indoor game that you played in your childhood
Describe an free time activity you like to do after study or work
Art or craft activity you did at school
Describe a game you play on your cell phone
Describe an activity you recently took part in
Describe an exciting sport you know
Describe an indoor game that you liked to play when you were a child
Describe a sport that you have learned
Describe a sport you enjoy playing
Describe an activity you enjoy doing in your free time
Describe a competition that you took part in
Describe an activity that you enjoy that takes place in or near water
Describe an unusual activity you’ve recently taken up

Something important:

Describe an important change in your life
Describe something you own which is very important to you
Describe a festival that is important in your country
Describe an important conversation that Influenced You
Describe a gift you have received that was important to you
Describe an important historical event in your country
Describe an important letter or email you wrote
Describe a traffic rule or law you know about
Describe a time when you forgot something important
Describe an important decision that you made with the help of others
Describe something you have always wanted to do but have not done yet
Describe something important you have learned recently
Describe something important that you bought recently
Describe an invention that has changed people's life
Describe life in a particular period of history
Describe a typical day in your life when you were a child
Describe the Best and exciting experience in your life
Describe a success in your life
Describe a life-changing experience you have had
A memorable event from your school days
Describe an event you felt unhappy about
Describe a particular event in which you were successful
Describe a birthday party or celebration that you attended recently
Describe an event when someone denied your request
Describe an outdoor sport you played for the first time
Describe a party you attended before
Describe a music concert you have seen
Describe a wedding you have attended

Someone :

Describe something kind that someone did for you
Talk about a situation when you taught something to someone
Describe the advice you gave someone
Describe a decision made by others you disagreed with
Describe a situation when you had to be nice to someone you dislike
Describe a couple you know who have a happy marriage
Describe someone you know who is a good teacher
Describe a time when you first met someone
Describe an occasion when you had to wait a long time for someone

Child :

Describe a child whom you know
Describe an experience you spent time with a child
Describe a game (not a sport) you played in your childhood
Describe where did you live when you were a child

Who you admire:

Describe an artist or entertainer you admire
Describe the person in your family who you most admire
Describe a creative person whom you admire the most
Describe a person you love/like/admire
Describe an old person you admire the most
Describe a useful plant you know about
Describe a useful website you have visited
Describe a blog or news that you find useful
Describe a documentary you find useful
Describe a channel you find useful
A program or an app in your computer/ phone
Describe an app you use on your mobile phone
Describe a time when you were not allowed to use a mobile phone
Describe a website you have bought something from
Describe an app you mostly buy things
Describe a successful small company or business that you know
Describe a successful businessman you know
Describe your idea of starting a new business
Describe a small business you want to start
Describe a businessman you admire
Describe a movie or performance you recently watched
Film/movie that you watched and did not enjoy
Describe a Hollywood film you liked
A Character in a Movie/Tv Program you like
Describe a film or TV program that made you laugh a lot
Describe a famous person that you are interested in
Describe a famous building/landmark
Describe a famous food item
Describe a famous athlete you know.
Describe a famous chef you know.

Interesting:

Describe an interesting talk or a lecture you have heard
Describe an interesting story you have read or heard
Describe an exciting or interesting thing you did in past
Describe an interesting animal you have ever seen
Describe a piece of local news that you found interesting
Describe a story or a novel that was interesting to you
Describe a bicycle/motorbike/car trip that is interesting
Describe an area of science that interests you
Describe a big/large company you are interested in
Describe something interesting you learned from the internet
Describe a book you have recently read
Describe an interesting house or apartment you visited
An Interesting Neighbor You Like
An educational trip
Describe a piece of good news that you heard or received

Describe the best gift you have ever received
A gift you gave to someone that took a long time for you to Select
Talk about a gift you received in your childhood.
Describe a gift you received on your birthday.
Describe something you bought this year.
Describe a memorable gift.
Describe a valuable possession you have.
Describe a change that will improve your local area
Describe a change you would like to have in you.
Describe an important change in your life.
Describe a positive change in your life
A change which has changed your life

Your country:

Describe a serious environmental problem in your country
Describe a Landscape in Your Country
Describe an important day you celebrate in your country
Describe an interesting part of your country
Describe an important plant in your country
Describe a health problem you once had
Describe something healthy you enjoy doing
Describe a practice that you undertake to maintain your fitness and well-being.
Describe an article about health that you came across either online or in a magazine.
Describe a healthy way of living that you are familiar with.
Describe a physical activity or sport that you engage in for the purpose of staying fit.
Describe an endeavor that you undertake for your physical or mental health.
Describe an experience where you did something beneficial for your health.
Describe an Activity you do for your Health or Fitness.
Describe Something you Have Done that is Good for Your Health
A childhood event that made you happy
A photograph that is really close to your heart
Describe a memorable event in your life.
Describe a funny childhood event.
Describe something you can recall from your childhood.
How did you spend your childhood?
Who was your childhood hero?
Describe an event you remember clearly.
Describe an interesting event you still remember.

Routine

Your favorite part of the day
Describe a time of the day that you like.
Have you ever changed your routine?
Do you usually have the same routine every day?
Do you think it is important to have a daily routine for your study?
What part of your day do you like the best?
What is the busiest part of the day for you?
A sport you enjoy playing
A gathering you had been to
Any activity you want to try
Describe a popular sport or game in your country.
Describe a sport you like to play.
Describe the most popular sports in your hometown.
Describe an outdoor activity you participate in.
What sports did you do at school?
What sports do you play to keep fit?
A place you desire to visit.
A recent trip you took
A place you consider to be contaminated
Describe a visit to one of your relative's house.
Describe your journey to your hometown.
Describe a journey you took to a foreign country.
Talk about a journey you disliked.

Experience

A time when you imagined something
Any situation that had made you grumpy or angry
Describe the Best experience in your life ·
Describe an exciting experience in your life ·
Describe an experience you had with a child you know
Delicious supper anything you ate outside
Describe a food item you often eat.
Describe Your favorite food joint you have had with your friends.
Describe a food you eat outside your home.
Describe a food item you know how to cook.
Describe a food you had with your friends.
Your preferred book
A website that you frequently visit
Describe the Best Comics to read
Describe an exciting book to read
Describe the best newspaper to read.
Positive feedback when reading a novel.

Entertainment

Funny comedian who you find entertaining
Your favorite television programs
Describe an interesting song
Describe a toy you liked in your childhood
Describe your favourite movie
A building which you like
Describe a building or construction which impressed you
Describe a modern building
Describe an old building that you like
Describe a tall building in your city you like or dislike
Any good news that you have received recently
Describe a news story you have read or heard about recently
Describe a piece of local news that people are interested in
Describe a piece of international news you have just recently heard

Other cue cards:

A law about environment
An article about healthy living that you read from magazine or online
A film you watched at home or in a cinema
The first time you used a foreign language to communicate
Local news people interested in
Describe something you learned in a place or from someone
A meal you had with your friends in a restaurant
A sport you have learned
Describe a family you know
Describe a skill
Describe a natural landscape scenery
Describe a bicycle/bike/ car trip
Describe a language other than English you would like to learn
Describe a game/ sport
A time you miss an appointment
Something you did which was a waste of time
An important letter or email you wrote
Describe something you do that keeps you fit and healthy
Describe a time when you were looked at the sky

Check out IELTS cue card topics with answers that will help you understand it more.

“Do you like to travel?”

Whether or not they enjoy traveling, the candidate must explain here. They can also express their preference for a certain location and explain why.

"What activities do you enjoy during your free time?"

The candidate can begin by talking about their favorite destinations. For example, "I love going to museums, and the last time I was in Rome, it was wonderful. It was an exciting experience!".

The candidate should try to divide the question into smaller parts while answering using an IELTS part 2 cue cards. For example:

Tell them about a decision that altered their life.

The student should begin by explaining their decision and whether other choices were available. Furthermore, the student must explain why they decided in the first place.

"No one in my family had ever studied abroad before me, but my parents hoped I would become a member of their family business. On the other hand, I wanted to study marketing in the UK. I am pleased and confident that this will assist me in my profession. When I return to my country, I want to increase our family business using the knowledge we've gained."

Answering these questions requires knowledge of a past event. To answer them, candidates should be able to:

They use a variety of tenses.
rephrasing the question
Avoiding using words like actually.
To answer the question directly, the line of best fit is straight.
A summarizing sentence ends the answer.

What is your favorite vacation of all time?

You can first introduce the topic and then write down IELTS Cue Card topics with answers.

Where they took their vacation.
It was taken.
Several people went on this excursion.

IELTS speaking test part 3 asks you to discuss questions related to topic area in part 2. The topic will be discussed in a more abstract manner, moving away from the more familiar topics discussed in parts 1 and 2.

"What kinds of things give people status?"

People may use certain possessions to indicate their status in certain situations, for example, a Mercedes Benz car. The candidate can begin by saying, "People might regard a Mercedes Benz vehicle as a symbol of status, for example, because most people would not be able to afford one at all. Furthermore, one's property is an indication of status".

"Have the same possessions always been considered valuable?"

A person running for office can compare how the items in the present compare with those in the past and express his opinion.

"Why do people seek status in society?"

Individuals are driven by human nature to display success and wealth. Therefore, societal pressure and the connection between displaying status and earning respect can be acknowledged by candidates.

The IELTS cue cards are updated every four months, and half of the topics are changed in April, September, and December. As a result, some topics can be repeated, but it is equally challenging for applicants to prepare for the 50% of possible cue cards that may appear on their exam.

In addition, part 2 of the speaking test evaluates your ability to speak fluently and naturally on a specific topic, rendering the memorization of pre-prepared answers useless. As a result, the best course of action is to prepare for the sections since the topics may change thoroughly, but the type of cue cards will not.

This means that only a set type of cue card, such as a person, object, or memory, will repeat, and you can prepare for all of them to excel in your exam.

Refrain from just memorizing your response. Judges do not appreciate an answer that is robotic.
Devote a few seconds to comprehending the question.
Don't just respond to the test questions with a simple "Yes" or "No". Instead, make sure to give complete responses that include relevant examples.
Record all the fresh words you learn and try to apply them in daily conversations.
To qualify for Band 7, a person must be able to incorporate connecting words and phrases into their writing with ease. This includes expressions like although, however, on the other hand, in other words, and more. Having a wide variety of these elements in their writing will aid in making their work stand out.
Do not utilize enigmatic vocabulary.
Prevent the replication of phrases.
Do not be anxious too much regarding your accent and abstain from imitating accents.
Evade filler words.
Respond to queries in detail instead of just providing a one-word answer.
Ensure you include some idioms in your address while portraying expertise in the correct pairing of words and correct style. The evaluator will search for signs that you can go deeper than just basic book learning. They will be pleased with your use of real English.
The speaking test is designed to simulate a regular conversation. Don't be afraid to ask your examiner to explain what a word means if you don't understand it. Remember to apologize before doing so.

Check also: IELTS writing task and IELTS reading questions

The IELTS speaking cue cards 2024 are a great way for students to practice for the IELTS test. These IELTS Speaking Cue Cards feature various topics that students may be asked about on the IELTS test and can help students get a better idea of what types of questions they may be asked on the test. By going through the IELTS Speaking Cue Cards, students can prepare for the IELTS test and better understand the kinds of questions they may be asked on the exam. With the help of the IELTS Speaking Cue Cards, students can improve their English speaking skills and increase their chances of passing the IELTS test.

Do you have more question about IELTS Cue Card? Get in touch with our Edmissions experts to learn more about study abroad !

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IELTS Speaking Cue Card Topics: Questions and Sample Answers (2024)

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IELTS Speaking Cue Cards

The IELTS cue card is a crucial part of the speaking section of the test. During the speaking interview with an examiner, you will be given a cue card that contains a specific topic or task.

The IELTS cue card for speaking includes questions related to the topic you should speak about. You have one minute to prepare your response and two minutes to talk about the topic.

The IELTS cue card format is structured to analyse your English language skills in various aspects, such as fluency and coherence, vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. The IELTS cue card topics are mostly based on personal experiences, opinions, or abstract ideas. The IELTS cue card topics and questions assess your ability to organise, present information, and communicate effectively and coherently within the given time.

List of IELTS Cue card questions

Personal experiences.

Describe a memorable holiday you have had.
Talk about a difficult decision you had to make.
Describe a childhood memory that you still cherish.
Discuss a situation where you helped someone.
Describe a happy event from your childhood.
Describe a city you have visited and liked.
Talk about a historical place you have visited.
Describe a place where you would like to live in the future.
Discuss a park or garden you like to visit.
Describe a place you have recently traveled to.
Describe a person who has influenced you in your life.
Talk about a family member you are very close to.
Describe a famous person you admire.
Discuss a friend you have known for a long time.
Describe a teacher who has had a great impact on you.
Describe a celebration you recently attended.
Talk about a sports event you watched live.
Describe a cultural festival celebrated in your country.
Discuss a wedding you have attended.
Describe a concert or music event you enjoyed.
Describe your favorite piece of clothing.
Talk about a gift you received recently.
Describe a technological device you can't live without.
Discuss a book that had a significant impact on you.
Describe a photograph you cherish.

Travel and Holidays

Describe a journey you would like to take in the future.
Talk about a place you would like to visit for a short trip.
Describe a memorable road trip you have been on.
Discuss a holiday destination famous for its beaches.
Describe a cultural experience you had while traveling.

Education and Learning

Describe a memorable experience you had in school or college.
Talk about a subject you enjoyed learning about.
Describe a skill you would like to learn in the future.
Discuss a teacher who inspired you to learn.
Describe a course or training program you recently completed.
Describe a new technological gadget you would like to buy.
Talk about an app that has made your life easier.
Describe a piece of technology you use every day.
Discuss a technological advancement that has positively impacted society.
Describe a time when technology helped you solve a problem.

Food and Cooking

Describe a traditional dish from your country.
Talk about your favorite restaurant and what makes it special.
Describe a memorable meal you had with friends or family.
Discuss a cooking recipe you enjoy making.
Describe a street food experience you had while traveling.

Environment and Nature

Describe a natural disaster you have experienced or learned about.
Talk about your favorite outdoor activity.
Describe a national park or wildlife reserve you have visited.
Discuss a conservation project you are passionate about.
Describe a camping trip you went on.

IELTS cue card topics

Here are some common IELTS cue card formats you can expect during the assessment. Make sure to prepare accordingly.

Describe a course that you want to learn in future.

You should say:

What the course is about?
What did you like about the course?
When do you want to start learning?
Where can you learn the course?
Why do you want to learn it?

Describe a memorable event from your childhood.

Describe the event.
When and where did it happen?
Who were the people involved?
Why is it memorable to you?

Talk about your favourite book or movie.

What is the title of the book/movie?
What is the genre and the storyline?
Why is it your favourite?
Would you recommend it to others? Why?

Describe a place you would like to visit.

Which place is it?
What do you know about the place?
Why do you want to visit it?
What activities would you like to do there?

Discuss a person who has had a significant impact on your life.

Who is the person?
How did you meet this person?
In what ways have they influenced you?
How has your life changed because of them?

Talk about a hobby or activity you enjoy.

What is the hobby/activity?
When and how did you start doing it?
What do you like about it?
How does it benefit you or make you feel?

Describe a recent travel experience.

Where did you go?
Who did you travel with?
What did you do there?
What did you enjoy the most about the trip?

Talk about a technological device you find useful.

What is the device?
How do you use it in your daily life?
What benefits does it provide?

Describe an achievement you are proud of.

What is the achievement?
When did it happen?
How did you accomplish it?
Why is it significant to you?

Discuss a cultural event or festival you have attended.

Which event or festival was it?
When and where did it take place?
What were the highlights of the event?
How did you feel about the experience?

Talk about a challenging situation you faced and how you dealt with it.

What was the situation?
How did it challenge you?
What steps did you take to overcome it?
What did you learn from the experience?

IELTS cue card with sample questions and answers

Ielts cue cards for speaking: sample 1, talk about your favourite book, movie or television series., ielts cue cards for speaking: sample 2, ielts cue cards for speaking: sample 3, pro preparation tips for the ielts cue card task.

Understand the structure, format and types of questions to expect in the speaking test. This will help you feel prepared on test day.
Create a study plan to streamline your preparation process and achieve your target score.
Refrain from memorising any answers. It will confuse you during the interview.
Familiarise using a range of grammatical structures and maintaining fluency instead of complex words.
Practice speaking out loud on various topics you expect might appear on the IELTS cue card. It helps you improve your pronunciation and fluency in spoken English. Also, use simple language and make sure you convey your ideas and opinions.
Ensure to be prepared for the possible follow-up questions and try to prepare yourself to answer them.
It is advisable to avoid overthinking. This might affect your flow and disrupt your thought process during the interview.

💡Pro Tip: Unlock your IELTS success with Pedro's 17+ years of expertise, now streaming on Edvoy's YouTube channel .

Frequently asked questions

What is an ielts cue card.

An IELTS Cue Card is a task card provided to candidates during the IELTS Speaking test. It contains a topic or a prompt that the candidate needs to speak about for a specific duration. The Cue Card aims to assess the candidate's ability to speak fluently, coherently, and effectively on a given topic.

How much time do I have to speak on the Cue Card topic during the IELTS Speaking test?

Candidates are typically given 1 minute to prepare their response after receiving the Cue Card. After the preparation time, candidates must speak for 1 to 2 minutes on the given topic. The examiner will stop the candidate after 2 minutes.

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IELTS Speaking Cue Cards: A Comprehensive Guide

Posted by David S. Wills | Oct 7, 2022 | IELTS Tips , Speaking | 0

In part two of the IELTS speaking test, you will be given a cue card. On it, there will be a task that you have to complete. The purpose is to see if you can speak on one topic for an extended period of time.

In this article, I will tell you everything that you need to know about IELTS speaking cue cards and also give you some advice on how to prepare for them.

What is an IELTS cue card?

A cue card is a piece of paper that will tell you to describe something and give you a few pieces of advice about how to describe it. Here is an example:

This is an example of a typical IELTS cue card. I have annotated it for you. Although every cue card will be different, they will always have these three parts:

Bullet points
Final thought

Don’t let that last label fool you, though. You don’t have to talk about that last. You can discuss these parts in any order. We’ll come back to that later.

What do you do with the cue card?

Once you are finished with part one of the IELTS speaking test, the examiner will hand you this cue card. You will also have a piece of paper and a pencil.

You will be given one minute to prepare your answer. In that minute, you need to:

Analyse the cue card

Think of a subject to discuss
Plan out your answer

This can be challenging. In fact, even for a native speaker it would be a difficult thing to do! However, you should just try your best.

Once you have done that, you are required to speak for between one and two minutes on the given topic. If you go on longer than two minutes, the examiner will stop you. If you fail to speak for even one minute, they will prompt you to continue with further questions.

Types of IELTS cue card

I have written before about IELTS speaking topics . These are subjects that commonly arise in the speaking test. There is a very wide variety of topics, but fortunately you are not required to be an expert on any of them in order to succeed. These are mostly everyday topics that anyone could have an opinion on, like education , technology , sport , and so on.

I have produced dozens of sample answers to IELTS cue cards on this website and on my YouTube channel . Here are some of them:

Describe your hometown
Describe a tradition
Describe a job
Describe an indoor game
Describe a person who influenced you
Describe your favourite possession
Describe your favourite singer
Describe a big city
Describe an interesting person
Describe a polite person
Describe a crowded place
Describe a TV programme
Describe a party
Describe an app
Describe a festival
Describe a piece of art
Describe a positive change in your life
Describe a family
Describe a historical period
Describe a shop
Describe an unusual meal
Describe a plant or flower
Describe a website
Describe a helpful person
Describe something you often do in the evening
Describe a restaurant
Describe a book
Describe an animal
Describe some good news
Describe a foreign country

Do you notice anything about these cue cards? They all ask you to describe something! The list includes many different types of thing – people, places, objects, and also abstract concepts. Some of them could be easy but others could be very difficult. You have to be ready for anything.

How to answer an IELTS cue card

In each of the links above, I show you a few things about the cue card:

How to analyse it
How to plan your answer
How to make notes
How to deliver a coherent answer

In each of them, I also give my own sample band 9 answer, so that you can see what that looks like. You can even listen to my sample answers in these videos !

I will summarise the steps here again:

This means reading the cue card to determine what it is asking you to do. Sometimes this is very easy, but occasionally it can be hard. Also, with the stress of the exam, it’s easy to make a mistake. The main part is the task (the first line). However, you should also pay attention to the bullet points as these can remind you of important ideas.

Planning your answer

You really don’t have long to do this. Just think of the first thing that comes into your head and then spend your one minute of planning time working out approximately what you want to say. If it asks you to describe a famous person , for example, then don’t think of five people and weigh their merits. Just choose one and start planning.

You need to think about what the cue card asks of you but also what you want to say. You should try to cover the bullet points, but feel free to talk about absolutely anything else that is necessary to give a good description.

Making notes

You don’t have to make notes but it can be helpful. The important thing is to only write down a few words. I’ve seen IELTS candidates try to write whole sentences, but this does not go well. In fact, most people would struggle to write even a few sentences in a minute.

Instead, note down things that will help guide you while you’re speaking:

Structure points

Basically, just write a couple of words (or abbreviations) that will remind you of what to say when you’re in the middle of your speech. It could stop you from slowing down or repeating yourself.

As for structure, you don’t have to talk about the bullet points in the same order that they appear on the cue card! In fact, you can order them as you please.

Giving a good answer

You will be marked on how good your English is, meaning your vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation, and so on. However, you will also be judged on your coherence and fluency, so it’s important to speak with confidence, avoid repetition , and logically connect your ideas.

I always advise people to start with a personal anecdote because the mind typically develops ideas in a natural and logical way from there. I have a whole article on this here .

What about really difficult cue cards?

Some cue cards are harder than others. It can be easy to describe a movie, a friend, a book, or your hometown… but what about if you are asked to describe a maths problem or a memory?

Unfortunately, you can’t ask for a new cue card. You just have to do your best. My advice would be to honestly tell the examiner why you find it hard. Remember: This is an English test! If you were asked to describe a prize but had never won a prize, you could just explain this to the examiner and then talk about a time you almost won or a prize you want to win… The point is to communicate in good English. That’s all the examiner needs from you.

I have a whole article on dealing with difficult cue cards here .

More advice about IELTS cue cards

I think we’ve covered just about everything, so let’s look at some final words of advice:

Practise often before your exam . You can do this at home by picking random topics and then using the timer on your phone to see how long you can talk for without repeating yourself, running out of ideas, or otherwise coming to a stop. Even better: find a speaking partner or teacher to help you.
Look at past cue cards . Use the list above or check the Cambridge IELTS books to see real cue cards that have been given in the past. You cannot predict the future, but you certainly can see common topics and trends. These will help you to prepare.
Work on calming yourself . When I give practice IELTS speaking tests, the most common problem I see is that people are really nervous! This is understandable, of course. It’s a scary exam. However, nervous people talk too quickly and make too many mistakes. It’s better to stay calm and be in control of yourself. Doing this will help you get a better score.
Work on answer structures . Although you should not memorise answers, you can figure out common structures that help you to spontaneously think of better answers. Fundamentally, you can have a beginning, middle, and end, just like a story.

I have lots more advice in this video:

Some people say that part two is the hardest part of the IELTS speaking test, but if you practise in the right ways, it doesn’t have to be. It certainly seems like a big challenge, but once you get used to speaking at length, it is not hard to describe something over a period of two minutes.

When you are confident that you can do this, you can focus on improving your grammar and vocabulary, as well as building up your pronunciation skills. All of this can push you up to a higher and higher band score.

About The Author

David S. Wills

David S. Wills is the author of Scientologist! William S. Burroughs and the 'Weird Cult' and the founder/editor of Beatdom literary journal. He lives and works in rural Cambodia and loves to travel. He has worked as an IELTS tutor since 2010, has completed both TEFL and CELTA courses, and has a certificate from Cambridge for Teaching Writing. David has worked in many different countries, and for several years designed a writing course for the University of Worcester. In 2018, he wrote the popular IELTS handbook, Grammar for IELTS Writing and he has since written two other books about IELTS. His other IELTS website is called IELTS Teaching.

Family and Friends [IELTS Topic]

September 25, 2017

Future Plans [IELTS speaking]

September 23, 2020

Describe a Restaurant [IELTS Speaking Part 2]

September 26, 2018

How to Learn IELTS Vocabulary

February 7, 2022

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IELTS Speaking Cue Cards Topics: Guide and Tips

If you plan to take the IELTS test, you better have your cue cards skills ready as they will come in handy in the IELTS Speaking section , specifically in IELTS Speaking Part 2 or Task 2 .

You may find yourself anxious and nervous in this part of the test, and we can’t blame you. After all, this part of the test will have you talking for two minutes straight, without any interruption from the examiner.

This article has gathered the possible topics and the best and proven techniques and strategies to help you prepare for the IELTS Speaking Cue Cards section and perform at your best.

What is the IELTS Speaking Test?

What are the question types in ielts speaking part 2, what is a cue card in ielts speaking, guidelines to structure your speaking for ielts cue cards, 40+ ielts cue card sample questions, general tips and tricks to ace the cue cards section, additional faqs on the ielts speaking test cue card topics.

The IELTS Speaking Test is one of the four sections of the IELTS exam . It is designed to evaluate your spoken-English skills, which include your pronunciation, fluency, grammar, and vocabulary. It takes about 11 to 14 minutes and is divided into three parts. Like the IELTS Listening Test, the IELTS Speaking Test is also the same for both the Academic and General Training modules.

This part of the test is in the form of an informal interview between you and the examiner. As part of the test protocols, it will be recorded in case you might want a remark. The examiner controls the time, and they will be the one to decide what band score you will be given based on a 9-band scale.

The cue card or what others also call the candidate task card is given to you in the IELTS Speaking Part 2 . It contains a topic which you will speak about for two minutes. You will also be given a paper and a pencil, and one minute to prepare for your speech.

You have to take note that the examiner will control the time in this part of the test, and you are advised to use both the one-minute preparation and two-minute speech to the maximum.

One of the best ways to prepare for the IELTS Speaking Cue Card section (Part 2) is to familiarize yourself with the different types of questions that will be asked in this part of the test. This way, you will develop a strategy to answer them best and eventually get a high band score.

The questions in the IELTS Speaking Part 2 will cover topics that include people, places, things, activities, and past occurrences. There will be 3 to 4 questions :

The first 2 to 3 questions will answer the basic ‘who,’ ‘what,’ ‘where,’ and ‘when’ questions.
The last question will require you to answer and explain ‘why’ and ‘how.’

Here are a few examples to help you understand:

Topic/Question:

Describe something that you own that is extremely valuable to you

Guidelines to answer the question:

What it looks like
Where, when, and from whom you got it
Why it is valuable to you (explanation)

Describe a time when you give someone an advice

Who this person is
What your relationship with this person is
When you give the advice
How your advice affected the life of this person (explanation)

In general, a cue card is a card with words written on it to help us remember what we need to say. It is called a ‘cue’ card because if we are at a loss, we may look at them from time to time to guide us as we finish whatever we have to say.

A lot of people use cue cards in their line of work. Actors, television hosts, speakers, and other television productions use cue cards so that the audience will not see them. It helps them save time and work more efficiently.

A cue card in IELTS Speaking is the topic card given to you at the start of your IELTS Speaking Task 2 . It is a piece of paper where the topic that you have to talk about is written. Once you are handed the cue card, you have to take down notes right away, using the paper and pencil given to you, as you only have one minute to prepare.

Remember that you cannot ask the examiner to change the topic, and you have to talk about that topic regardless of how much or how little you know about it.

After the one-minute preparation period, the examiner will instruct you to start your speech, and as much as possible, you have to utilize the entire two minutes. The examiner will then ask you follow-up questions about your speech, which you have to answer too.

To prepare for the IELTS Speaking Cue Card section (Part 2), you need to get yourself acquainted with the possible topics that the examiner will ask in this part of the test. Though the topics may be personal and something you might already know, you still do not want to be caught off-guard seeing an unfamiliar topic.

Through the years, these are the most common topics and themes from which your IELTS Speaking cue card will be based:

The IELTS Speaking cue cards are an essential part of the IELTS Speaking section. This is the second of three tasks that you have to accomplish in the test.

To tackle the tasks more effectively, you need a host of skills and strategies to employ, including thinking on your feet.

Here are the strategies that you need to keep in mind in structuring your IELTS Speaking Cue Cards section (Part 2):

Think quickly: There is a chance that you will get cue cards with difficult-to-discuss topics. In such circumstances, do not overthink things; instead, go with your first instinct and make up the details as needed. For example, if you are asked to speak about someone you admire the most, do not strive to respond honestly. Simply choose the first person who comes to mind or invent such a person. Bear in mind that you only have a minute to prepare; spend it wisely.
Utilize the one-minute preparation period: Make the most of your one minute by immediately brainstorming ideas for the topic you will be speaking about. Make a list of any relevant terms that come to mind. This is an opportunity for you to consider the subject you would like to speak about, and as a result, it is a way for you to develop your speech as you prepare. If you utilize the one minute well, you will speak more clearly and for longer periods.
Keep in mind the 5Ws and 1H : The 5Ws (‘who,’ ‘what,’ ‘where,’ ‘when,’ and ‘why’) and 1H (‘how’) are addressed in the IELTS Speaking Cue Cards section (Part 2). Most candidates usually do not have problems answering the ‘ who,’ ‘what,’ ‘where,’ and ‘when’ questions, but when it comes to the ‘ why’ and ‘how’ questions, they struggle and are left with nothing to say. Thus, their marks are affected. Improve your skills with these question types beforehand so explaining and expressing your ideas will go smoothly.
Organize your thoughts: Spending your time wisely during the one-minute preparation period does not only mean being able to write down your ideas on the time frame given. What you wrote means nothing if it will not help you in your two-minute speech. With this, make sure that the things you wrote are organized and understandable. Write down your ideas in a way that you will have a solid grasp on whatever it is that you have to say. Having the words in bullets might help.

Below are the tips on how you should speak in the IELTS Speaking Cue Cards section (Part 2):

Start with a good opener : You are advised to have a strong opening statement in mind before you start working on the cue card topic. We recommend memorizing a powerful opener because initiating a conversation in such a high-pressure situation might be challenging. Have an opening that is both catchy and engaging. Do not use the usual and overused ‘I want to talk about…’ and instead, try something like ‘Well, I actually have a lot of people in mind, but I’d rather talk about….’ This will earn you an excellent first impression with the examiner.
Learn how to paraphrase: Paraphrasing is another excellent approach to show off your language skills. As you begin to speak, avoid using the exact words from the card; instead, describe it in your terms. Aside from being boring, it also gives the examiner an idea that you lack grammar and vocabulary skills. These two criteria account for 50 percent of your IELTS Speaking band score . For example, do not say, ‘I’m going to describe a gorgeous spot in China.’ Say, ‘I’m going to talk about a stunning snow-capped location that we Chinese consider as a slice of heaven on Earth.’
Share your story, do not narrate: The IELTS Speaking Cue Card section (Part 2), though in the form of a monologue, is not a story-telling test. It is still part of your informal interview with the examiner, and as such, you should strive to keep the same level of comfort as you have in Part 1 or Task 1 . Some candidates forget this and, in turn, fail to engage the examiner in the conversation. Imagine the examiner as a friend with whom you are having a casual conversation. Employ facial expressions, friendly body language, and hand gestures.
Maintain your fluency, do not rush: Fluency does not imply speaking quickly. It is about giving yourself time to consider and then speaking clearly. Speak at a natural pace while ensuring that the examiner still understands every word you say. It will not only help you get a higher band score, but it will also allow you to speak for longer than two minutes. Avoid talking too slowly, too, as this may lower your fluency and coherence scores.

Additional Reading: IELTS Speaking Section

Grammar for IELTS Exam: Complete Guide
Top 100 IELTS Phrasal Verbs
50 Useful Phrases for the IELTS Speaking Test

From our research, we’ve compiled a list of possible questions, based on previous exams from IELTS test-takers. Please note that these are a sample. As the IELTS exam evolves, they might add more categories. The examples here are to illustrate how the questions are gathered.

Describe a person you love/like/admire

who that person is
what you usually do with this person
how often you see this person

and explain why you love/like/admire this person.

Describe someone famous that you want to meet

who this person is
how you know this person
why this person is famous

and explain why you want to meet them.

Describe your best friend

how you met this person
how often do you see each other

and explain why you regard this person as your best friend.

Describe a person who you think is a good leader

how people behave around this person

and explain why you feel about him/her as a good leader.

Describe a neighbor you like

Who this neighbor is
How long you have known them
From where they are

and explain why you like this neighbor.

Describe a place where you want to travel next

where and what this place is
who you want to go with
when you plan to go there

and explain why you want to go to this place.

Describe a historical place that you have been to

what people do at this place
what you enjoy there the most

and explain how you felt being there.

Describe a place where you and your friends went recently

where and what it is
who you go with
why you go there

and explain how you felt that day.

Describe a place where you spend most of your free time

where this place is
what you do there
how often do you go there

and explain why you love spending your free time there.

Describe a country that you want to visit

what country it is
how you know about this country
what do tourists usually do in this country

and explain why you want to go to this country.

Describe a gift that you have received recently

who gave it to you
what the occasion was

and explain how you felt when you received this gift.

Describe an item of clothing that you bought for someone

who it is for
why you bought it for that person

and explain how you think that person felt when you gave it to them.

Describe a piece of art that you want to buy

what this piece of art is
how you learn about it
how you think you would be able to buy it

and explain why you want to have it.

Describe something that you recently lost

when you think you lost it
how long you have had it

and how you felt when you lost it.

Describe a vehicle you want to buy

what type of vehicle it is
how you know about this vehicle
how you got interested in it

and explain why you think it would be a good purchase.

Describe an activity you find enjoyable

what this activity is
how you know about this activity
when you usually do this activity

and explain how you feel when you do this activity.

Describe a place where you love to shop

how you know about this place
whom you go with at this place

and explain why you like this place.

Describe an event that you recently attended

what event it was
when and where it was
who else attended the event

and explain how you felt during the event.

Describe one of the busiest days of your life

when it was
where it was
who were involved in it

and explain how you felt after that day was over.

Describe a hobby that you do with your family

when you usually do it
how it is done

and explain how you feel when you do it with your family.

Past Occurrences

Describe a difficult decision that you made

what decision it is
who you consult about it
when you made this decision

and explain how it affected your life.

Describe a time when you felt lucky

what happened

and explain why you felt lucky that time.

Describe the first time you had your first mobile phone

what phone model it was
if you bought it yourself or someone gave it to you

and explain how you feel about having a new phone that day.

Describe a time when you helped a stranger

why that person needed help

and explain how you felt after helping them.

Describe a time when you tried to do something but weren’t successful

Describe your favorite teacher

who this teacher is
where and when you had them as a teacher
what your fondest memories with this teacher are

and explain why this teacher is your favorite.

Describe your favorite photograph

who the person/people in the photograph is
when it was taken
where it was taken

and explain why you like this photograph.

Describe your favorite subject in school

what subject it is
when you took it
if it is a difficult or easy subject for others

and explain why you like this subject.

Describe your favorite song

the title and the artist behind the song
what kind of song it is
how you know about it

and explain how you feel when you hear or sing this song.

Describe your favorite actor

who this actor is
how you know them
if this actor is famous both locally and internationally

and explain why they are your favorite.

Describe a situation that made you upset

where it happened
when it happened
who you were with

and explain why you felt upset.

Describe a time when you had an argument with someone

who this person was
what the argument was about

and explain how you felt that time.

Describe one of the happiest travels you had

and explain why you consider it one of the happiest travels you have had.

Describe an incident when you got scared

what you were scared of

and explain how you felt after that incident.

Describe a time when you felt relieved

where it happened
what the other possible outcome was

and explain how you felt about it.

Work/Studies

Describe a workaholic person you know

what this person does
how you know about this person

and explain how you think this person feels about their job.

Describe an interesting course you took

what course it was
who the teacher was

and explain why you think it’s interesting.

Describe a time when someone at school/work gave you a compliment

who gave the compliment to you
why that person gave you a compliment

and explain how you feel that time.

Describe a quiet place at school/work where you like spending your break time

what and where it is
who usually go there
how often you go there

and explain how do feel when you are there.

Describe a time when something unfortunate happened at school/work

how the people reacted

and explain how you felt during that time.

The IELTS Speaking Cue Card Section (Part 2) can be daunting even for the most confident candidates. This part of the test entails talking for two minutes straight, and if you come unprepared, you might mess this part up.

Here are the proven tips and tricks that will help you ace the IELTS Speaking Cue Cards Section (Part 2):

Practice (a lot): Weeks before the test, practice your speaking skills using a stopwatch. Time yourself while taking down notes and while speaking. Stick to the time limit, even if it is only practice. This will train you to speak continually, making it easier to maintain a two-minute speech.
Record yourself: Make an audio or video recording of yourself while giving your speech to prepare for the IELTS Speaking Cue Cards Section (Part 2). After that, listen to how you sound and watch yourself as you do your speech. This will help you realize both your strengths and weaknesses and, in turn, help you focus on the areas that need improvement.
Familiarize yourself with the use of cue cards: Knowing how to use a cue card is crucial in this part of the test. It will not only assist you in remembering what you need to say, but it will also assist you in organizing your speech. Take notes while watching your favorite television show or reading the news, then talk about what you have written. This will help you get familiar with the use of cue cards.
Learn the skill of brainstorming: What you write in the note-taking preparation period will make or break your performance in the IELTS Speaking Cue Card Section (Part 2). This is where your brainstorming skills will come in handy. Learn the different skills and techniques that you can employ to help you come up with the best ideas when you prepare for your speech. For some people, using maps and diagrams work to their advantage. It differs for every person; learn which technique you think would be most effective for you.
For a thorough and comprehensive guide on how to prepare for the entire IELTS test, check out our comprehensive IELTS preparation guide .

How Can I Improve My Cue Card Speaking

You can improve your cue card speaking by familiarizing yourself with the use of cue cards.

You can do this by taking notes while doing your daily routines, such as watching the television, reading the newspaper, or reading a book.

This will help you get familiar with how to use a cue card and, in turn, will make you more confident on the day of the test.

How Do I Answer Cue Cards in IELTS?

You need to make sure that you answer every bullet in the cue card that will be given to you.

You will be given one minute to prepare for your speech and two minutes to talk. Make sure to utilize both periods wisely. Do not include irrelevant topics, as it will affect your overall band score.

How Can I Get an 8.5 in IELTS Speaking?

You can get an 8.5 in IELTS Speaking if you practice and study enough.

Utilize all the possible resources you have that will help you improve your grammar, vocabulary, fluency, and pronunciation. This includes books, magazines, television, radio, smartphone, and the internet.

Do a lot of mock tests too. Another way is for you to hire a private tutor.

Additional Reading — IELTS Speaking Cue Card Questions

Describe a Person You Admire
Describe Your Best Friend
Describe Someone Famous that You Want to Meet
Describe a Person Who You Think is a Good Leader
Describe a Neighbor You Like
Describe a Place You Want to Travel Next
Describe a Historical Place that You Have Been to
Describe a Place You and Your Friend Went to Recently
Describe a Place Where You Spend Most of Your Free Time
Describe a Country that You Want to Visit
Describe a Gift that You Have Received Recently
Describe an Item of Clothing that You Bought for Someone
Describe a Piece of Art that You Want to Buy
Describe Something that You Recently Lost
Describe a Vehicle that You Want to Buy
Describe an Activity that You Find Enjoyable
Describe a Place Where You Love to Shop
Describe an Event that You Recently Attended
Describe One of the Busiest Days of Your Life
Describe a Hobby that You Do with Your Family
Describe a Difficult Decision that You Made
Describe a Time When You Felt Lucky
Describe the First Time You Had a Mobile Phone
Describe a Time When You Helped a Stranger
Describe a Time When You Tried to Do Something but Weren’t Successful
Describe Your Favorite Teacher
Describe Your Favorite Photograph
Describe Your Favorite Subject in School
Describe Your Favorite Song
Describe Your Favorite Actor
Describe a Situation that Made You Upset
Describe a Time When You Had an Argument with Someone
Describe One of the Happiest Travels You Ever Had
Describe an Incident When You Got Scared
Describe a Time When You Felt Relieved
Describe a Workaholic Person You Know
Describe an Interesting Course You Took
Describe a Time When Someone at Work Gave You a Compliment
Describe a Quiet Place at School Where You Like Spending Your Free Time
Describe a Time When Something Unfortunate Happened at Work

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IELTS Speaking Cue Cards 2024: Exploring Topics with Expert Sample Answers for Success

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on mastering the IELTS Speaking Cue Cards for 2024. If you're gearing up for the IELTS exam, you know how crucial the Speaking section is in assessing your English proficiency. In this article, we'll delve into the nuances of the Speaking Cue Cards, explore various topics you might encounter, and provide expert sample answers to help you achieve success. Let's dive in!

Understanding the IELTS Speaking Cue Cards

For more information : Buy our Writing Templates and cue cards

Exploring Topics and Prompts:

The topics and prompts on the cue cards can vary widely, covering areas such as education, technology, health, travel, and more. It's crucial to expose yourself to a variety of topics during your preparation to ensure you're ready for anything that might come up on exam day. Additionally, understanding the sub-questions or prompts can help guide your response and ensure you address all aspects of the topic.

Developing a Structured Approach:

To tackle the cue card task effectively, it's essential to have a structured approach. One popular method is the PPF framework, which stands for Point, Example, and Explanation. Start by introducing your main point or idea, provide an example to support it, and then explain how the example relates to the topic. This framework can help you stay organized and focused during your response.

Crafting Expert Sample Answers

One of the best ways to prepare for the cue card task is to study expertly crafted sample answers. These answers demonstrate how to effectively structure your response, use appropriate vocabulary and grammar, and maintain coherence and cohesion throughout. We'll provide some sample answers for you to study and analyze in detail.

Before embarking on the IELTS Speaking test, candidates should invest ample time in familiarizing themselves with common topics and practicing responses to Cue Cards. Engaging in mock speaking sessions with peers or tutors can aid in building confidence and fluency.

2. Structure and Organization:

Structure plays a pivotal role in delivering a coherent response during the IELTS Speaking test. Candidates should aim to structure their responses logically, incorporating an introduction, main points, and conclusion within the allotted time frame.

3. Vocabulary Enhancement:

Expanding one's vocabulary repertoire is crucial for articulating ideas effectively and expressing opinions succinctly. Candidates should endeavor to incorporate a diverse range of vocabulary and idiomatic expressions into their responses to convey nuances of meaning.

4. Fluency and Coherence:

1. Describe a memorable journey you have taken.

"One of the most memorable journeys I embarked on was a backpacking adventure through Southeast Asia. Exploring vibrant cultures, stunning landscapes, and culinary delights, the journey left an indelible mark on my soul. From trekking through lush rainforests to savoring street food delicacies, every moment was a testament to the beauty of wanderlust."

2. Discuss the impact of social media on modern society.

4. Describe a significant technological advancement in recent years.

"' The advent of artificial intelligence (AI) represents a significant technological breakthrough in recent years, revolutionizing various industries and reshaping societal norms. From autonomous vehicles and virtual assistants to predictive analytics and medical diagnostics, AI has permeated every aspect of modern life, offering unprecedented efficiency and innovation. Embracing AI technologies while addressing ethical concerns is pivotal in harnessing its transformative potential for the betterment of society."

5. Discuss the impact of globalization on cultural diversity.

" Globalization has facilitated unprecedented interconnectedness among nations, fostering the exchange of ideas, goods, and cultures on a global scale. While promoting cultural exchange and economic growth, globalization also poses challenges to cultural diversity, as homogenizing forces threaten to erode traditional customs and languages. Balancing the benefits of globalization with the preservation of cultural heritage is essential in fostering a more inclusive and harmonious global society."

Pro preparation tips for the IELTS speaking test

Familiarize Yourself with the Test Format: Understand the structure of the IELTS Speaking test, including the three parts and the types of questions asked in each part.
Practice Regularly: Engage in regular speaking practice sessions to improve fluency, vocabulary, and pronunciation. Utilize resources such as cue cards, sample questions, and speaking partners to simulate test conditions.
Expand Your Vocabulary: Enhance your vocabulary by reading extensively and learning new words and phrases. Practice using synonyms and idiomatic expressions to convey ideas effectively during the test.
Record and Review Your Responses: Record your speaking practice sessions and listen to them critically. Identify areas for improvement, such as pronunciation, grammar, and coherence, and work on refining these aspects.
Focus on Fluency and Coherence: Strive to maintain a natural flow of speech and coherence in your responses. Avoid hesitations, repetitions, and long pauses by practicing speaking fluently on a variety of topics.
Use Correct Grammar and Pronunciation: Pay attention to grammar rules and pronunciation patterns in English. Practice speaking in grammatically correct sentences and enunciate words clearly to ensure clarity of communication.
Manage Your Time Effectively: Practice managing your time during the test, especially in Part 2, where you have limited preparation time. Use the one-minute preparation time wisely to brainstorm ideas and structure your response.
Stay Calm and Confident: Approach the IELTS Speaking test with confidence and a positive mindset. Stay calm and composed during the test, and remember that mistakes are natural and do not necessarily affect your overall score.
Engage with the Examiner: Maintain eye contact with the examiner and engage actively in the conversation. Listen attentively to the questions and respond thoughtfully, demonstrating your ability to communicate effectively in English.
Seek Feedback and Guidance: Seek feedback from tutors, peers, or online forums to identify areas for improvement and receive constructive criticism. Incorporate feedback into your practice sessions to continuously enhance your speaking skills.

Discuss the effects of AI on job markets and the skills required for the future workforce.
Describe a person you know who likes to talk a lot
Describe a course that you will learn in the future
Describe the happiest day you had
Talk about a toy you liked in your childhood
Describe a skill you learned in your childhood
Describe an interesting activity that you enjoyed in primary school
Describe a long-term goal you would like to achieve
Describe a time when you helped someone
Describe a park or garden in your city
Describe a beautiful city
Describe an interesting place in your country
Describe a difficult task that you completed at work or school that you felt proud of
Discuss the relationship between social media usage and mental health, considering both positive and negative effects.
Talk about a bad habit you have
Talk about a memorable movement in your life
Talk about some motivation you received
Talk about a change in your life
Describe a recent travel experience
Describe your family
Describe a painting or work of art
Describe your dream job
Describe a movie you recently watched
Describe a recent technological innovation that has impressed you
Share your views on how podcasts have become a significant medium for communication and information sharing.
Describe an actor or actress that you admire

Conclusion:

Mastering the art of delivering proficient responses to IELTS Speaking Cue Cards requires a combination of preparation, strategy, and fluency. By embracing effective study techniques, honing speaking skills, and familiarizing oneself with diverse topics, candidates can embark on their IELTS journey with confidence and competence. Remember, success in the IELTS Speaking test is not merely about linguistic proficiency but also about conveying ideas convincingly and engaging the examiner effectively.

Frequently asked questions

1. What is the format of the IELTS Speaking test?

The IELTS Speaking test consists of three parts: Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3. In Part 1, the examiner asks questions about familiar topics such as work, studies, hobbies, and interests. In Part 2, the candidate is given a cue card with a topic to speak about for two minutes. In Part 3, the examiner asks follow-up questions related to the topic discussed in Part 2.

2. How can I improve my speaking skills for the IELTS test?

To improve speaking skills for the IELTS test, candidates can engage in regular practice sessions, participate in speaking clubs or discussion groups, listen to English podcasts or radio programs, and seek feedback from tutors or language partners. Additionally, focusing on vocabulary expansion, grammar practice, and pronunciation drills can enhance overall speaking proficiency.

3. How long is IELTS valid for 2024?

Your IELTS scores are valid for two years. The IELTS validity starts from the date you receive your results.

4. What is the pattern of the IELTS speaking exam 2024?

Dr. Roma offers online IELTS coaching by an expert IELTS Trainer. Perfect choice for Online IELTS Coaching .

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Conquering IELTS Cue Cards: Strategies and Tips for High Scores

What is a cue card, role of cue cards in ielts speaking, ielts cue card topics, tips for high scores in ielts cue cards.

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) stands as a pivotal assessment for individuals aiming to prove their English language proficiency. It is conducted in 4 components – writing, speaking, listening, and reading. Among its diverse components, the IELTS Speaking cue cards present a unique challenge.

Hence, this comprehensive guide will delve into the strategies and tips for mastering IELTS cue cards and securing high scores. From understanding the role of cue cards to exploring effective techniques, this blog aims to empower test-takers on their journey to IELTS success.

Before jumping onto strategies, it is imperative to have a fundamental understanding of the cue card. In the IELTS Speaking test context, a cue card is a prompt card provided to the test-taker with a specific topic and a set of questions.

The IELTS Cue Card evaluates the individual's ability to speak coherently and fluently on a given subject.

The role of cue cards extends beyond being mere prompts. They serve as a dynamic tool for evaluating a candidate's spoken English capabilities. IELTS Speaking Cue cards are integral to the assessment process, emphasising their role in measuring not only linguistic skills but also the candidate's capacity to articulate thoughts and ideas under time constraints.

The diversity of IELTS latest cue card topics is vast, mirroring real-life scenarios that candidates may encounter. Below, we are providing an insightful exploration of various cue card themes, offering a glimpse into the breadth of subjects test-takers may encounter during the IELTS Speaking test.

Unlocking the secrets to mastering IELTS cue cards requires a strategic approach. Below, you can check the IELTS Cue Cards tips designed to elevate performance and maximise scores in the Speaking section.

Manage Time Effectively

Practice responding to IELTS cue cards within the allotted time frame to strike a balance between comprehensive answers and pacing.

Emphasise Key Points

Identify key points you want to emphasise in your response. Pronouncing these points demonstrates control over the content and ensures your response aligns closely with the cue card's requirements.

Practice Regularly with Diverse Topics

Challenge yourself with various IELTS Speaking cue card topics during practice to build versatility and adaptability. This regular exercise enhances the naturalness of your responses.

Be Specific and Illustrative

When responding to IELTS Latest cue cards , aim for specificity. Provide concrete examples, details, and illustrations to support your points. Whether sharing a personal experience or discussing a broader topic, painting a vivid picture with specific details showcases a higher level of language proficiency.

Be Mindful of Tenses

Maintain consistency in your use of tenses throughout your response. Be aware of the timeframe indicated in the cue card for IELTS , and tailor your language accordingly. When discussing past experiences, present situations, or plans, accurate and consistent tense usage is key to conveying your ideas clearly.

Develop a Range of Linking Words

Practice incorporating a variety of linking words such as "however," "moreover," "furthermore," and "conversely." This adds fluency to your speech and aids in transitioning smoothly between different aspects of your response.

Focus on Pronunciation Accuracy

Practicing speaking words clearly while paying attention to sounds that might be challenging. So, if certain words are particularly tricky, dedicate time to improve your pronunciation through focused practice.

Engage in Mock Interviews

Simulate the actual test environment by engaging in mock interviews. Practice with a partner or record yourself responding to cue cards for IELTS. This practice can help refine your speaking skills and build confidence in expressing your thoughts spontaneously.

Seek Feedback

Share your recorded responses or engage in practice sessions with teachers, language partners, or peers. External feedback provides insights into areas for improvement that may need to be made apparent to you.

Develop a Personal Strategy for Note-Taking

Use the one-minute preparation time wisely by jotting down key points or a rough response outline. Having a brief roadmap for your Cue Card for IELTS can help you stay focused and organised during your two-minute speaking time.

Be Prepared for Follow-up Questions

IELTS Cue card responses often lead to follow-up questions from the examiner. Anticipate potential questions related to your initial response and be prepared to provide additional details or insights. This demonstrates flexibility in handling a range of speaking tasks.

Summarising the insights gathered, this blog reinforces the critical role of strategic preparation in conquering IELTS cue cards . By employing a combination of effective strategies, from understanding the task to honing language skills, test-takers can confidently approach the Speaking section, increasing their chances of achieving high scores in the overall IELTS examination.

We hope the above information regarding IELTS Speaking Cue Cards will be helpful for you in IELTS exam preparation. However, you can contact Prepare IELTS (PI) expert counsellors for further guidance. Our team of education experts is dedicated to providing you with the best guidance in the IELTS exam. You can get a one-on-one counselling session online via our platform. Contact us at [email protected] or call us at +91 9773398388.

Cue cards in the IELTS Speaking section serve as prompts to assess a candidate's ability to express ideas coherently and fluently on a given topic. They play a crucial role in evaluating linguistic skills and the candidate's capacity to communicate effectively within a limited timeframe.

Test-takers are given one minute to prepare for a cue card response. During this time, you can make brief notes or mentally organise your thoughts before initiating your two-minute speaking response.

You cannot ask the examiner to repeat the cue card prompt. It is essential to listen attentively during the initial presentation of the cue card, as you will not have another opportunity to hear the instructions.

Pronunciation is significant in the cue card section. While fluency and coherence are essential, clear pronunciation contributes to effective communication. Practice enunciating words accurately and focus on maintaining a natural and confident tone.

The guidelines for the IELTS Speaking test do not explicitly prohibit the use of bullet points. However, it's advisable to use keywords or a brief outline rather than full sentences. The focus should be on natural speech.

It's beneficial to address as many points as possible; covering every detail on the cue card is not mandatory. Prioritise expressing your ideas coherently and fluently.

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IELTS Speaking Part 2: Cue Cards, Topics and Answers

Helpful resources
IELTS Writing
IELTS Writing Correction

Introduction to Speaking Part 2
IELTS Speaking Test Overview Parts 1-3
About IELTS Speaking Part 2
IELTS Speaking Part 2 – IELTS Cue Cards – What are they?
IELTS Cue Card Topics
IELTS Speaking Part 2 – IELTS Questions & Sample Answers
Tips and Tricks
How to practise IELTS Speaking Part 2
IELTS Speaking Part 2 – FAQs

1. Introduction to Speaking Part 2

Check out an overview of the IELTS test and a detailed guide to the IELTS cue cards and questions in this part of the IELTS test. Learn some useful tips and tricks that can improve your score and get the answers to the most frequently asked questions.

This part of the exam is your chance to show your fluency and knowledge of vocabulary in specific subject areas. Whether it is referred to as ‘a monologue’ or ‘a talk’, it is your opportunity to speak without interruption. It is your time to shine!

2. IELTS Speaking Test – Overview Parts 1-3

The whole speaking test will take about 12-14 minutes to complete. You will meet the examiner(s) and introduce yourself. They will ask for your identification and then take you through each part of the test.

The test consists of 3 parts:

IELTS Speaking Part 1 : Answer questions about you and topics you know

IELTS Speaking Part 2: Prepare and present a cue card monologue

IELTS Speaking Part 3 : Answer more complex questions about the monologue topic

The examiner is marking your speaking ability using the following criteria:

Fluency & Coherence
Lexical Resource
Grammatical range and accuracy
Pronunciation

Each area is worth 25% of the total speaking score. Let’s take a look at IELTS Speaking Part 2 in more detail.

3. About IELTS Speaking Part 2

This part of the test will only take a few minutes in total. You will be given some time to prepare your talk and then asked to speak about it for 1-2 minutes.

The examiner will give you all the information you need and a IELTS cue card. You will have 1 minute to prepare that topic and will be given a pen and paper to help with this.

4. IELTS Speaking Part 2 – Cue Cards – What are they?

A cue card, or a candidate task card, is information and helpful points about a subject that you can prepare from. It will include 3-4 questions to help you plan your monologue. IELTS Speaking Part 2 cue cards will look like this:

Cue Card Talk about a website you find useful: You should say:

How often you use it
What you use it for
Why it is helpful

Cue Card Describe an important letter you received: You should say:

When did you receive it
Who sent it to you
What was it about
How did you feel after reading it

Cue Card Talk about a celebration you have attended: You should say:

When it was
What you were celebrating
How you felt about attending the event

Cue Card Describe an activity you do in your freetime: You should say:

When you started doing it
Who you do it with
Why you like it

IELTS Cue Card Preparation

You will have 1 minute to prepare what you want to say about the subject. You can write down some keywords to help you. Like this!

Wikipedia, encyclopaedia, online, often, study, research, talking with friends, find out, look up information, quick, accessible, not always accurate

Exam results, summer, university, excited, apprehensive, envelope, good news, celebrate, proud

Last summer, wedding anniversary, 40 years, grandparents, extended family, homemade cake, good mood, laughing, dancing, admiration, emotional, delighted

Golf, last year, golf course, clubs, colleague, amazing views, relaxing, 18 holes, exercise and fitness, relieve stress, improving skills.

The examiner will ask you to start speaking after 1 minute. With good planning, 1-2 minutes speaking will feel like no time!

5. IELTS Cue Card Topics

Before the exam, think about the most common themes you will be asked to discuss. Here are a selection of IELTS cue card topics for Part 2, based on past exam questions. Click on the cue card topics below to see some sample questions and answers for each:

Study the IELTS speaking cue card topics but don’t memorise a monologue as it is impossible to predict which subject you will be given. In the next part, you can look at some candidate task card questions and suggested answers so you know what to expect in the exam.

6. IELTS Speaking Part 2 Sample – Questions and Answers

Take a look at two IELTS Speaking Part 2 samples:

Candidate Task Card Sample 1

Cue Card Describe an item of clothing you received from somebody: You should say:

What it was
When you received it
Who gave it to you
Explain why they gave it to you

I received a winter coat as a gift a few years ago. It was really luxurious , thick and warm and it was red, my favourite colour. It was a great present and I still have it in my wardrobe now.

It was Christmas a few years ago when I received it. It was a complete surprise as I thought it was a dressing gown or some slippers . When I opened it, I realised it was this red coat that I had seen in a really posh department store.

It was given to me by my husband for Christmas. He usually asks me what I would like before Christmas, but this time I didn’t have a clue what it was. Much better than the usual gifts like perfume or a gadget. This was really thoughtful and sweet because I had been complaining that I needed a new coat for months.

My husband gave me the coat because he knew I was fed up with wearing my old one. He also wanted to surprise me and he certainly did. He remembered me looking at one in the window of the shop when we were out shopping one Saturday. I can’t believe he remembered it and got the correct size. I was really touched and have always enjoyed wearing it.

(Link to full exam question set with glossary)

Candidate Task Card Sample 2

Cue Card Talk about a time when you tried to persuade somebody to do something: You should say:

Who the person was
When and where it was
How did they respond to your suggestion
Explain what happened in the end

I am going to talk about a time I persuaded my brother to come on holiday with me to France. It was a few years ago after I had graduated when I had the opportunity to spend the summer in France helping out at a campsite. The problem was I was a bit shy back then so I was a little reluctant to go on my own. So I decided to try and persuade my brother to come along with me for the ride .

We met in the pub and I brought up the subject immediately. At first he was opposed to the idea as he had a steady girlfriend that he didn’t want to be away from all summer. I argued that we would have a good time and his girlfriend could come and visit, we would get paid and have the holiday of a lifetime at the same time. After much to-ing and fro-ing , he eventually gave in and said he would fly out to France with me and see how it goes for a month or so.

A few months later, we arrived in France and started work at the campsite which was a beautiful place and I did feel a bit smug . My brother and I had a great time working a few hours and having the freedom to go off camping and exploring. I didn’t say ‘ I told you so ’ but I was glad it worked out in the end. My brother ended up splitting up with his girlfriend anyway.

These IELTS speaking part 2 sample answers include some advanced vocabulary -make a note of any appropriate words and phrases in your plan.

7. IELTS Speaking Part 2 – Tips and Tricks

Follow these tips and tricks and you will be prepared for the exam!

Plan! Plan! Plan!

Within the IELTS cue card reading, you have one minute to plan – take advantage of it! Note down words and phrases that will help remind you what to say. Try and note some advanced vocabulary and phrases related to the subject.

Use your speaking time to the full

When the examiner asks you to, start talking immediately. Don’t think too long about the ‘correct answer’ – there are no extra points for honesty! Try not to hesitate or pause too much. If you make a mistake, correct it or move on! Make sure you continue talking for the full 1-2 minutes – the examiner will stop you or give you a sign that you have said enough.

Speak slowly and clearly

Speak at a natural and steady pace. This will help you focus on your pronunciation and the examiner will be able to understand and follow your monologue well.

Memorise a good opening line

Getting starting can be the difficult part – so take away the worry by memorising a simple introduction statement. For example:

I’d like to talk about…

I’m going to talk about X because…

These expressions can then be applied to any object, experience or activity you need to talk about. Before you know it…you’re doing it!

Paraphrase the candidate task card

Use the information you have been given on the cue card to form your answer. Introduce the information by paraphrasing – saying the same thing in different words. For example:

“Describe a beautiful place you have visited.”

“I am going to talk about when I spent the day at a spectacular castle…”

You can practise this skill by making notes, planning and preparing from our exam cue cards.

8. How to Practise IELTS Speaking Part 2

Practice making notes.

Your planning will be the key to being organised during your monologue, so practise making notes. Take one of the example cue cards and time yourself making notes on this subject. Do this for as many of the common themes as possible. You can choose to make lists or draw a map. Either way, it will soon become second nature.

Read lots of cue cards

Reading a variety of cue cards will help you to know what to expect when you take the test. In addition, read our IELTS reading test with answers.

Watch videos or listen to audio example

You can watch videos online of example speaking tests. Some of them demonstrate advanced fluency and vocabulary. Make notes of interesting phrases they use for different subjects or words that connect the different parts of the monologue.

Time and Record Yourself

This part of the exam is timebound, 1 minute to prepare and 1-2 minutes talking. Practice timing yourself during note taking and speaking. By recording yourself on your phone or computer, you can identify your strengths and weaknesses and get a feel for what 1-2 minutes feels like. There is more information about identifying your strengths and weaknesses here .

Practice with a buddy or tutor

Practising with somebody else can be more realistic and you can get some useful feedback. Why not book a time slot for a practice test with one of our friendly, expert team members? You will get individualised feedback guaranteed to improve your speaking skills. Book a practice test today!

9. IELTS Speaking Part 2 – FAQs

Any doubts about IELTS Speaking Part 2? Here are some frequently asked questions:

What happens in Speaking Part 2? The examiner will give you a cue card which includes a topic and some points to help you. You will have 1 minute to read the cue card and make notes. The examiner will then ask you to start – you have 1-2 minutes to talk about the topic. The whole section will take about 3-4 minutes.

How long should my answers be in Part 2? You have 1-2 minutes to discuss the topic and 3-4 points to help you. Start you talk with an introduction to what you are talking about and then progress through the points using your vocabulary notes and examples. When the time is up, the examiner will stop you or give you a sign (a smile, not or a hand) to indicate you have said enough.

What if I don’t understand all the words on the cue card? It might be possible that you don’t need to understand every word in the context. It is unlikely that the cue card will have very difficult words. However, it is ok to ask for clarification. Try to do this before your minute planning starts. Use polite question forms such as ‘Would you mind clarifying this part?’

What if I don’t have an appropriate example Lie! There are no points for honesty so if you need to invent an example – do it! It is easier to use an example of your own but in order not to waste time, choose your example quickly and start making notes.

Do I need to answer all the questions on the cue card? Yes. You will be scored on answering the question completely so make sure you talk about all the points – although you don’t need to spend equal time on them.

Where can I get more help? Book a speaking test simulation with our expert team!

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IELTS Speaking Cue Cards

Describe a street market in your city ...... View Model Answer

Describe a street market in your city

Describe a time when you visited a street market ...... View Model Answer

Describe a time when you visited a street market

Describe an argument two of your friends had ...... View Model Answer

Describe an argument two of your friends had

Describe someone you know who has started a business ...... View Model Answer

Describe someone you know who has started a business

Describe an article on health that you read from a magazine or online ...... View Model Answer

Describe an article on health that you read from a magazine or online

Describe a town or city where you would like to live in the future. ...... View Model Answer

Describe a town or city where you would like to live in the future.

Describe a puzzle you have played ...... View Model Answer

Describe a puzzle you have played

Describe a live sports match that you have watched ...... View Model Answer

Describe a live sports match that you have watched

Describe a plan in your life that is not related to work or study ...... View Model Answer

Describe a plan in your life that is not related to work or study

Describe a tradition in your country ...... View Model Answer

Describe a tradition in your country

Describe a line that you remember from a poem or song ...... View Model Answer

Describe a line that you remember from a poem or song

Describe an art exhibition that you visited ...... View Model Answer

Describe an art exhibition that you visited

Describe a person who wears unusual clothes ...... View Model Answer

Describe a person who wears unusual clothes

Describe a time when you changed your opinion ...... View Model Answer

Describe a time when you changed your opinion

Describe an aquatic animal ...... View Model Answer

Describe an aquatic animal

Describe an area of science that interests you ...... View Model Answer

Describe an area of science that interests you

Describe a famous person that you are interested in ...... View Model Answer

Describe a famous person that you are interested in

Describe a good decision you made recently. ...... View Model Answer

Describe a good decision you made recently.

Describe a toy you liked in your childhood. ...... View Model Answer

Describe a toy you liked in your childhood.

Describe an old friend you got in contact with again. ...... View Model Answer

Describe an old friend you got in contact with again.

Describe a plant grown in your country you think is important. ...... View Model Answer

Describe a plant grown in your country you think is important.

Describe a perfect job you would like to have in the future ...... View Model Answer

Describe a perfect job you would like to have in the future

Describe an event you attended in which you didn’t like the music played. ...... View Model Answer

Describe an event you attended in which you didn’t like the music played.

Describe your first day at school ...... View Model Answer

Describe your first day at school

Preparing for the IELTS exam can be very challenging, but also extremely rewarding. You need to cover many different topics and try out multiple tests to ensure you have the possible results and experience. That's where IELTS Web comes into play. .... Read More

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15 IELTS Speaking Cue Cards with follow-up questions (2023)

In this tutorial, we look at 15 IELTS Speaking cue cards with follow-up questions.

For the IELTS Speaking section of your IELTS exam , you are given 1 minute by the examiner to prepare yourself to talk about a specific topic. This topic will be called a cue. The cue card topic as well as instructions about the topic are written as a guide.

Here are some examples of cue cards with follow-up questions to help you prepare and know what to expect.

IELTS Speaking Cue Card 1: Describe your favourite genre of music.

What is it?
Who is your favourite artist in this genre?
What does this express about yourself?

Cue Card 1 Follow-Up Questions

What is your favourite instrument, voice or sound used in the genre?
Do you have a favourite band from this genre?
Is this genre related to any other genres?
When did you first discover this was your favourite genre?
Has this genre influenced your life in any way?
Do you play any instruments?
Can you play any songs by an artist from this genre?

IELTS Speaking Cue Card 2: Describe your quiet place.

What does it look like?
Is there anything necessary used to create this place?
How much time do you spend there?
Where is this place?

Cue Card 2 Follow-Up Questions.

Is this place somewhere you can visit?
Does this place change in appearance?
What has this place helped you accomplish?
How should an ideal quiet place be set up?
Is a quiet place the same as a happy place?
If your happy place is different from your quiet place, what is your happy place?

IELTS Speaking Cue Card 3: Describe a childhood friend.

What did your friend look like?
How did you meet your childhood friend? How old were you when you met?
Are you still friends?

Cue Card 3 Follow-Up Questions.

What was the worst fight you guys had?
Do you share a secret between you two?
Did you two go to school together?
What was the happiest moment shared between you two?
When was the last time you talked to each other?
Where does your friend live now?
What should someone do if they do not know how to make friends?
Is shyness becoming more common nowadays?
Does every person have a childhood best friend?

IELTS Speaking Cue Card 4: Describe your favourite social media site.

What is your favourite social media site?
What do you use it for?
How long have you been using the social media site for?

Cue Card 4 Follow-Up Questions.

How many times a day, week, or month do you log onto this site?
Does the site affect you mentally?
What is something you don’t like about this site?
Are there any perks for setting up an account?
How often do you go onto the site?
Are social media sites dangerous to use?
How many people in total use the same site that you use in the world?
Have you witnessed cyberbullying?
Does it change your views towards anything?
How can you help someone who is being cyberbullied?
Which social media sites should you avoid?

IELTS Speaking Cue Card 5: Describe your favourite hobby.

What is your favourite hobby?
How long have you been doing your hobby?
What is the best thing that has come from this hobby?

Cue Card 5 Follow-Up Questions

Is your hobby a sport? If yes, which sport is it?
Is your hobby an art, craft or trade? If yes, what was the best thing you have made from it?
Do you know any friends who share this same hobby?
Is this hobby expensive?
How long do you plan on keeping this hobby for?
How many people have this hobby?
How popular is this hobby?
Are there any groups, specialists, competitions or clubs for this hobby?

IELTS Speaking Cue Card 6: Describe the best moment of your life.

What was the best moment of your life?
Who was involved in that moment?
When did this moment take place?

Cue Card 6 Follow-Up Questions

Were any of your friends or family here when this happened?
Can the best moment of your life happen again?
What was so special about this moment?
Would you repeat the moment again if you could?
Would you skip this moment if you could? - Is the best moment of your life real? Or something that the brain makes up?
Should everyone have a best moment of their lives?
Is this moment something that you should deserve to have?

IELTS Speaking Cue Card 7: Describe your idol.

Who is your idol?
Why and how did this person become your idol?
How has this person impacted your life?

Cue Card 7 Follow-Up Questions.

Do you actually believe in idols?
Do you think having an idol makes you a better person?
Do you idolise yourself?
Whom do you idolise the least?
What could this person do that would make you consider them to not be your idol anymore?
Would you relive the moment when this person became your idol again if you had the opportunity?

8: Describe your dream job.

What is your dream job?
Do you already have this job?
What does it take to get this job? Is it difficult?

Cue Card 8 Follow-Up Questions.

Do you have to go to school for your dream job?
Are you currently in school for your dream job?
Does anyone you know have this job?
When did this become your dream job?
What will it take to keep the job?
Should dream jobs make you a lot of money?
Or should dream jobs only make you happy?
Does your dream job make enough money for you to live comfortably?
Can you ever be too old to work at your dream job?

9: Describe your dream vacation.

What is your dream vacation?
Where is your dream vacation located?
Have you been on your dream vacation?

Cue Card 9 Follow-Up Questions.

Will you ever be able to go on your dream vacation?
How much will your dream vacation cost?
Should everyone be able to go on their dream vacation?
Is the vacation supposed to be a reward or something you can do anytime?
Explain why this is your dream vacation.
Is a dream vacation real?

10: Describe where you want to retire.

Where do you want to retire?
Why is this where you want to retire?
What memories or activities do you want to do once you retire?

Cue Card 10 Follow-Up Questions.

Is this place real?
Is there a favourite food you will have supplied here?
Is the cost of retirement too expensive?
Should you be able to retire as a young adult?
Did you lose any money from your retirement when the economy fell?
How much do you want to save up for retirement?
How much does the average person in your country save up for retirement?
Is retirement not possible in certain countries or areas?

11: Describe your favourite mode of public transport.

What is your favourite mode of public transport?
How often do you use public transport?
Explain your feelings towards public transport.
What differences do you see between different modes of public transport?

Cue Card 11 Follow-Up Questions.

When do you most commonly use public transport?
What are the benefits of using public transport?
Why do you use public transport?
Do you suggest others do the same?

12: Describe your pet(s).

What kind of pets do you own?
How do your pets make you feel?
Where did you get your pet(s)?
How interactive are you with your pets?

Cue Card 12 Follow-Up Questions.

Who takes care of your pets? Are they high maintenance?
What do you think of people who don’t take care of their pets?
Do you plan on owning another type of pet in the future?
Which kind?

Cue Card 13: Describe how you use technology in your everyday life.

How often do you use your mobile phone?
Do you use the computer daily?
What does technology make easier in your day-to-day life?

Cue Card 13 Follow-Up Questions.

How much time do you spend using technology?
Can you be more productive with this time?
Who pays for your technology habits?
What are the most common types of technology you use?

Cue Card 14: Describe what type of effect reading has on you.

How do you feel when reading a newspaper/magazine article?
Do you read frequently and stay up to date with literature?
Where do you read most often?
When do you read there?

Cue Card 14 Follow-Up Questions.

Do others like to read with you?
How did you learn to read?
Explain the plot of your favourite story/book.

Cue Card 15: Describe your grandparents

What are your grandparents like?
Do your grandparents have special talents?

Cue Card 15 Follow-Up Questions

How often do you see your grandparents?
Do you enjoy seeing them?
How far do you live from your grandparents?
How do your grandparents treat you?

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IELTS Speaking Cue Cards

Updated on
Jul 30, 2022

IELTS is a well-known English proficiency test that is accepted by many of the world’s top colleges. IELTS scores are accepted by over 1000 institutions and colleges in over 140 countries worldwide. The test has four sections: reading , writing , speaking and listening . The speaking component of the IELTS is thought to be the easiest of all but what’s tricky is it’s Part 2 commonly known as the IELTS Speaking Cue Card round. This blog will provide you with a complete strategy to prepare for the IELTS Speaking Cue Card part.

This Blog Includes:

Objective and exam pattern, ielts cue cards for 2022, memories , a person you know , presents , routine , sports , travel , family , object , reading , entertainment , buildings , experience , expected cue cards of ielts on upcoming exam, part 1 , part 3 , ielts speaking samples, important questions to practise, strategies for planning in 60 seconds, leverage edu rockstars, how to prepare for the ielts online with leverage live, why choose leverage live.

The Speaking test is a one-on-one interview with the examiner. The Speaking test is designed to measure how well one can communicate in English. The test focuses on the candidate’s pronunciation, fluency, grammar and vocabulary.

The candidate will be given exactly one minute in the IELTS Speaking test to prepare themself to speak about a specific topic, which is known as the IELTS Speaking Cue card or Candidate Task Card. The instructions for their talk are written on a card that the examiner gives them. Their talk should last for approximately 2 minutes until the examiner asks them to stop. In the end, the examiner will ask one or two questions. The issue of the IELTS cue card/candidate task card takes 3-4 minutes, including 1 minute of preparation time.

Common IELTS Speaking Topics

An extensive collection of typical IELTS speaking exam topics with cue cards is provided below. To ace this section, students should practise the following topics:

A wonderful memory from your youth
A photograph that is really close to your heart
An individual whose impact on your life has been felt
Any person you find fascinating
Your favourite schoolteacher
An item you gave someone as a gift
A present you liked
Your preferred period of the day

Music

Your preferred music
A sport you like to do
A gathering you had been to
Any activity you want to attempt
A destination nation that you’d want to visit
Any body of water you have been to
A recent vacation you went on
A location you find to be contaminated
Discuss your family.
Describe the family picnic you attended.
A fun family event you’re looking forward to
Describe an occasion when you lent someone something valuable.
A product that satisfied you
The kind of cuisine you like
Food you consumed outside
Your preferred book
A website that you frequent
A comedian who you find entertaining
A favourite television programme
A structure that you like
Are there any recent positive developments?
A moment when you daydreamed
Any circumstance that had given you pause or anger

Because they are unsure of the questions the examiner will ask during the speaking portion, many applicants are terrified of it. This frequently undermines the applicants’ confidence and causes them to hesitate more frequently, which decreases their band score for this passage. Before the test, they can evaluate themselves and prepare with previous IELTS cue cards. They will be able to comprehend what is required of them in each segment as a result. But memorising is completely counterproductive and must be avoided at all costs.

Samples for Speaking Cue Cards Of IELTS

Do you like to travel?

Here, the applicant must describe whether or not they like to travel. They can give an explanation of the kinds of places they enjoy as well as an explanation of why.

What do you prefer to do on vacation?

The learner can now begin to describe their points of interest. For instance, the applicant may say, “I adore going to museums, and I just travelled to Rome. That was a fun event that I’ll never forget.

There will be an IELTS speaking cue card available. When responding to an IELTS cue card, the applicant should strive to divide the question into many pieces. For instance, the applicants can be requested to:

Describe a Decision that Changed their Life

The candidate should start by explaining what their decision was and if any other choices had been available. The student must also give a justification for their first choice.

They can begin by saying, “I recently decided that I wanted to pursue studies abroad. Naturally, no one in my family had been overseas before me, even though my parents had anticipated that I would work for their family firm. However, I took this decision because I wanted to study marketing in the UK. I am quite happy with this and am sure that it will further my career. I want to use our skills to grow my family’s business when I return to my own country.

These types of queries are related to a prior occurrence. Candidates can succeed in this if:

They employ a variety of tenses.
Formulating the query
Staying away from words like “really”
Answers that are brief and to the point
Putting a summary at the conclusion of the response

Favourite Vacation of Your Life

The learner may introduce the subject first before noting on the IELTS cue cards:

The location of their trip
They took it when
Who all travelled with us?

What kinds of assets give someone status?

The applicant may start by outlining the items that, in some situations, confer status. They may begin, for example, “In public, automobiles like Mercedes Benz may indicate class because the majority of people would not be able to purchase at all.

Was the value of the same items previously?

The applicant might discuss how they view the differences between possessions in the past and now.

What justifies individuals displaying their social status?

The student might first express their viewpoint by pointing out how it is a human tendency to display achievement and money. The candidate might then discuss the influence of society and how demonstrating status is connected to gaining respect.

In order to chisel your IELTS speaking skills you can practise while doing the following tricks:

Describe something you recently lost.
Moving to a new school or shifting to a new home
When you received a surprise gift.
When you directed someone to a location.
When you made a promise to another person.
Describe a well-known businessperson.
Describe a website from which you purchased something.
Tell me about something you would like to change about your lifestyle.
Describe a time when the internet assisted you in resolving a problem.
Tell me about a weekend that you remember and enjoyed.
Using Question prompts
List the 6 question cue keywords
Write bullet points for each relevant keyword.
Organise your notes in logical order
Remain calm
Body language says a lot, focus on them as well.
Practice answering all the “why” questions.
Don’t be in a hurry. Utilise all the time allotted to you to frame a perfect answer.
Avoid Speaking in Monotone
Don’t Panic When You Make Mistakes
Always be prepared for the follow-up questions
Be Prepared to answer the 5 Ws, What, Where, Who, When and Why.

The examiner controls the time very strictly in the IELTS Speaking Test. The examiner will stop you when you reach 2 minutes and move to the third round.

No, the examiner will give you a cue card that will contain prompts for you as a reference.

No, it’s not mandatory to follow the prompts provided by the examiner. Although, it is advisable to keep them in mind while framing the answer.

In the IELTS Cue Card round, you can’t change the topic assigned to you. We recommend you not to give up at the moment you feel confused. Try to understand the prompts and keywords given and frame an answer.

No, you can freely ask the examiner to repeat the question if you fail to hear clearly the first time, it won’t affect your scores. Although, it is advisable to only do so two to three times, not more than that.

Also Read: How We Got an 8 IELTS Band #SecretsRevealed

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IELTS Sample

Cue Card Sample

A teacher who has influenced you in your education - cue card # 18, describe a teacher who has influenced you in your education., tips for answering this cue card/ candidate task card question:.

The teacher's name
The subject(subjects he/she taught
The class/level he/she taught
His/her teaching style
Things you learned from him/her
How he/she influenced you to do better in life
What motivation you got from his/her lessons/personality/advice

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IELTS Speaking Part 2 Topics & Cue Cards with Answers

Are you preparing for the IELTS Speaking Part 2 ? Look no further! We have compiled a list of cue cards on the most common topics, such as travel, sport, hobbies, movies, family, education, and technology.

Additionally, we have provided sample answers to each cue card to help you improve your speaking skills and gain insight into what examiners are looking for.

IELTS Speaking Part 2 Topic: Travel

Describe a place you have visited that you would like to go back to..

You should say:

where the place is
what you did there
why you enjoyed it

and explain why you would like to go back

Sample Answer:

The place I would like to go back to is Bali, Indonesia. During my stay there, I visited a lot of beautiful beaches, tried surfing, and also went trekking to explore the island’s lush greenery. What I enjoyed the most was the laid-back lifestyle and the warm hospitality of the locals. They were always eager to share their culture and traditions with me. The reason why I wish to return to Bali is because of the unforgettable experiences I had during my stay, coupled with the desire to explore more of the island’s natural beauty and cultural richness.

IELTS Speaking Part 2 Topic: Sport

Describe a sports event you enjoyed watching..

what event you watched
where you were
who you watched it with

and explain why you think this movie had such an impact on you

Last week, I watched a tennis match between Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic. I was at my friend’s house, and we watched it together. The match was incredible because both players are so talented and it was hard to know who would win. I enjoyed watching the match because of the high level of play and the competitive spirit of both players. It was also great to watch it with my friend and discuss the different tactics and strategies used by both players. Overall, it was a really fun and engaging experience.

IELTS Speaking Part 2 Topic: Hobbies/Activities

Describe a hobby or activity you enjoy doing in your free time..

what the hobby or activity is
how often you do it
why you enjoy it

and describe how it benefits you

I enjoy hiking in my free time. I usually try to go at least once a month, but sometimes I’ll go more often if I have a free weekend. I enjoy hiking because it’s a great way to get outside and enjoy nature. It’s also a good workout, and I like the feeling of accomplishment I get from reaching the top of a mountain or finishing a long hike. Hiking also benefits me by reducing my stress levels and helping me clear my mind. Being out in nature is a great way to disconnect from technology and focus on the present moment.

IELTS Speaking Part 2 Topic: Movies

Discuss a movie that had a significant impact on you..

what the movie is about
how the movie made you feel
how it made you see the world differently

The film that had a significant impact on me is “Before the Flood”, a documentary about climate change. The film follows Leonardo DiCaprio as he travels around the world to learn more about the impacts of climate change and what we can do to stop it. Watching the film made me feel scared and helpless, but also motivated to take action. It made me see the world differently by showing me the real-life consequences of climate change and how it affects people and animals all over the world. I think this film had such an impact on me because it presented the issue of climate change in a clear and urgent way and made me realise that we all have a responsibility to take action to protect our planet.

IELTS Speaking Part 2 Topic: Family

Describe a person in your family whom you admire..

who the person is
why you admire them
how they have influenced or inspired you

and describe how your relationship with them has changed over time

The person in my family whom I admire is my father. He has always been a hardworking and dedicated person who puts his family first. I admire him for his work ethic and his ability to balance his professional and personal life. He has always been an inspiration to me in terms of his values and his approach to life. Over time, my relationship with him has deepened as I have come to appreciate the sacrifices he has made for our family and the lessons he has taught me about the importance of family and community.

IELTS Speaking Part 2 Topic: Education

Describe a skill you learnt outside of school that has helped you in your education..

what skill it is and how you learnt it
why you decided to learn it
how it has helped you in your education

explain how this skill could be useful for other students as well

A skill I learnt outside of school that has helped me in my education is learning how to code. I learnt it by taking online courses and attending coding boot camps. I decided to learn it because I wanted to understand how software worked and how I could create things on my own. This skill has helped me in my education by allowing me to automate tasks, analyse data, and create interactive projects. It has also opened up opportunities for me to pursue a career in technology. This skill could be useful for other students as well because it develops problem-solving abilities and helps them understand how technology works, which is becoming increasingly important in today’s world.

IELTS Speaking Part 2 Topic: Technology

Describe a device that you find useful..

what the device is and how it works
when and where you got it
how you use it in your daily life

and explain how this device has improved your daily routine

One of the most helpful devices I own is my fitness tracker. It is a small device that tracks my physical activity, heart rate, and sleep patterns. I got it as a gift last year and use it every day to monitor my fitness goals. It helps me stay motivated, reminds me to move more, and tracks my progress. It provides me with insights into my sleep quality, which helps me adjust my sleep routine. It has improved my daily routine by making me more active and aware of my physical health. It motivates me to push myself towards achieving my fitness goals. Overall, my fitness tracker is a great addition to my life that I would highly recommend to anyone who wants to improve their fitness and health.

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Describe a place you have visited that you particularly enjoyed When answering this question, you should describe the location, why you enjoyed it, what you did there, and any memorable experiences or sights you had while visiting. Sample: Describe a place
Talk about a memorable event in your life This question allows you to reflect on a significant moment in your life and share it with the examiner. You can talk about the event itself, what made it memorable, the people involved, and the impact it had on you. Talk about a memorable
Describe a subject you are interested in and why When answering this question, you should talk about the subject you are interested in, why you find it interesting, and how you first became interested in it. You can also discuss any related activities or hobbies you have related to the subject. Sample: Describe a subject
Describe an activity you do to keep fit and healthy For this question, you should describe the activity you do to stay fit and healthy, how often you do it, why you chose this activity, and any benefits you have experienced as a result. Sample: Describe a activity
Talk about a time when you faced a challenge and how you dealt with it This question asks you to reflect on a difficult situation you have faced and how you overcame it. You should describe the challenge, the steps you took to overcome it, and what you learned from the experience. Sample: Talk about a time
Describe a job or occupation you would like to have in the future When answering this question, you should talk about the job or occupation you would like to have in the future, why you would like to have this job, and any qualifications or skills you have that would make you a good fit for this job. Sample: Describe a job
Talk about a useful skill you have learned and how you learned it This question asks you to talk about a skill you have learned that has been useful to you. You should describe the skill, how you learned it, why it is useful, and how you have used it in your life. Sample: Talk about a useful skill
Describe a recent change in your life and how it affected you This question asks you to reflect on a recent change in your life and how it has affected you. You should describe the change, how it happened, how you felt about it at first, and any impact it has had on your life. Sample: Change in your life
Talk about a leisure activity you enjoy doing in your free time This question allows you to talk about a hobby or leisure activity you enjoy doing in your free time. You should describe the activity, why you enjoy it, how often you do it, and any special memories or experiences you have had related to this activity. Sample: leisure activity
Describe a gift you have given or received that was particularly memorable For this question, you should describe a gift you have given or received that was particularly memorable. You should talk about the gift, the occasion, why it was memorable, and what made it special. Sample: Describe a gift

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Describe a Town or City Where You Would Like to Live in the Future

Describe a town or city where you would like to live in the future

Where is it?
How do you know about this city?
What it is famous for?
Why you would like to live there?

Thank you for the cue card. I am going to talk about the topic of the city or town I would like to live in. Well, choosing the city or town for education and work purposes is somewhat difficult in my opinion because we have to look after a lot of comfortable things and facilities. Here I would like to talk about the city Hyderabad which is located in Telangana in India.

Mostly the information industry working employees choose this city as there is a number of resources available like apartments and individual houses are very nearer to the offices. So, in this way, we can reach offices in time by avoiding traffic congestion. For children, there are plenty of international education institutions available where they can get quality education along with other curricular activities.

For entertainment purposes there are many historic buildings such as Charminar, shopping malls, street markets like Begum Bazar and large theatres are present in that city, where people can visit in the weekends after stressful working hours for relaxation of their minds. In my scenario, Hyderabad city is very close to my hometown, which takes only 5 hours to reach,

So that I can travel and look after my parents whenever I have a holiday or free time, which is much beneficial for me. Hyderabad is also famous for the food items where people enjoy by having mouthwatering recipes and moreover they can order whenever they are busy in work.

Everyone has got a city or town where he/ she wishes to stay in some years to come for inner satisfaction. In the past, I never had any idea about a city I would like to live in in the coming future, but at present, I have this town in mind where I love to stay for some time to come. The name of this town is called Elmina which is located in the Central region of Ghana. I came across this town when I was enrolling in high school in 2010. It is well known for fishing and also the first town the Europeans( Portuguese) traded within Ghana during the slave trade era. It is also popular for it beautiful historical monuments like the castle, fort and ancient buildings and statues. Every year a countless number of tourists visit there to enjoy the nice scenery. It also has a rich culture and the people of Elmina celebrate the Bakatue festival. During this time overseas citizens return back home to reunite with their families and friends. I like the place because of the high sense of humour by the residents and also their rich culture.

Follow-ups of Describe a Town or City Where You Would Like to Live in the Future

Question 1:- why do more and more people live in the city.

Answer 1:- Most of the population in the country are willing to live in a city because of facilities like water power. There will be less power cut and no scarcity of water, and at the same time, everyone needs luxurious life to buy some products related to fashion like clothes, accessories and enjoying in the weekends by watching a movie in the theatre and going for one day trip to water parks with their family. So, all these facilities are not available in the countryside. For that reason, they like to move to the city.

Answer 2:- People prefer staying in the urban centres because life in the city is more convenient. There are better job opportunities easy access to social amenities like schools, hospitals and libraries; as such, it is much easier to excel in the cities compared to the rural areas.

Question 2:- What are the factors that attract people to settle down in certain places?

Answer 1:- There are a number of factors that attract people, like people who want a peaceful life by doing farming and other local business. They like to choose the urban areas and villages. People who are addicted to luxurious life and depending on the facilities and the things they are willing to live in the city. In my view, the old age people who are retired are mostly living the villages by constructing the independent houses, and most youngsters like me love to live in the city to enjoy the culture .

Answer 2:- Basically, I believe security and peace of mind are the main priorities people look out for. However, other factors like easy access to jobs and better working conditions are also important facets.

Question 3:- What are the differences between the young and old when choosing where to live?

Answer 1:- In my view, Young people want all the things by clicking a button, so they were in the mindset that in very little time they need more outputs and put less effort. These all things are made very easier by the technology whereas old people want everything in a conventional way and believe in their own efforts and hardworking. So, considering all these qualities, they are choosing to live according to their own choices. Peaceful life can be seen only in villages with fewer facilities and more away from technology. To answer your questions, the main differences are old choose to stay away from technology whereas youngsters rely on technology.

Answer 2:- I believe young people prefer places with a lot of the hustle and bustle where they easily fit in, whereas elderly people would love to stay in a cool and calm environment where nobody will disturb their peace of mind.

Question 4:- Do you like to live alone or share a room with others?

Answer 1:- Actually, I am an extrovert person. I like to talk with others more and believe that the exchange of information takes place between two individuals when they are more open and can learn some qualities from others. So when I’m alone, I used to feel very lonely and get some unwanted thoughts, so if I would get the chance, then I like to share the room with others. When I was working in the city where I used to stay away from my hometown at that time, I shared one room with my friend, and she was very kind. She used to help me in a hard time too.

Answer 2:- When I was young, I loved to live with others like my brothers and sisters, but when I grew up, I preferred to be independent. I feel I should do most things by myself without depending on anyone else.

Question 5:- What are the advantages and disadvantages of living alone?

Answer 1:- In my view, there are more disadvantages than advantages because if people want to live alone, they are more likely to get some bad thoughts and try to attempt suicide also when they are in depression. They cannot share their views and opinion with others, then definitely the other side of the coin will be different. For example, if some got struck to choose one thing with a comparison of other things, they may end up taking wrong decisions so, it might affect their future. On the other side, there are a few advantages like people can freely live as they want because no one can judge them and also there will be no misunderstandings too.

Answer 2:- When living alone, you have the liberty to take your own decisions and practically do everything on your own; however, there are pros associated with this. Sometimes we need someone to comfort us when we are down or even to direct us on certain decision making. If you’re living alone, it is likely to make certain mistakes that can result in great consequences.

Question 6:- What are the advantages of working abroad?

Answer 1:- In my view there are a lot of advantages to working abroad like they can get to know the traditions and cultures of other countries. They can develop some qualities like how to set and be flexible with other people. They can learn a new language livelily and can communicate easily with others. Apart from these, there is a scope of learning new technologies if they are working in the Information industry because more people from this industry get the chance to work abroad.

Answer 2:- There are myriad advantages to working overseas. First, you get the opportunity to experience other cultures and learn new languages. Second, you get to meet new people with different experiences and even earn higher incomes compared to your home country.

Question 7:- What are the disadvantages of living in a foreign country?

Answer 1:- There are a few disadvantages living in a foreign country based upon some live examples and experiences I have faced, like people have to stay away from their family and personal life because they got stuck into the busy work schedule. If they are living so many years away from the family, then probably the husband and wife relationship will be cut in the middle and end up in taking the divorce, which will impact their whole life. Also, if both the parents are working abroad and their children are living with grandparents. As a result, the children are not much connected with parents, and there is a lack of affection as well as the bond will be very weak.

Answer 2:- There are countless drawbacks associated with working abroad. Sometimes, the language barrier becomes a problem, and you find it difficult to communicate with people. Also, you can face racism in a foreign country which might even lead to irreparable consequences.

Question 8:Would you like to live in a developed city with a high salary, but with polluted air?

Answer 1:- I feel that if I am striving for high pay salary and senior position, then I have to sacrifice little things and have to move on. I know that living in a polluted city will have an effect on my health conditions but more than that, I need to be independent and have to continue working for growth. So to enjoy little things in my life, I have to pay more attention to them, choose the high pay and take necessary interventions to overcome other factors.

Answer 2:- Life is the most important thing, and if you have life, you have everything. Getting everything I need in terms of money and putting my health in danger can be very devastating to me. So I don’t think I will go for wealth and put my life at risk.

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Education: IELTS Cue Card Topics
Discussing education in the IELTS Speaking section allows you to demonstrate your capacity to reflect on past experiences, express ideas, and discuss abstract topics. It's a chance to showcase your ability to use sophisticated language and structures and convey complex thoughts. Explore Various IELTS Speaking Part 2 Cue Card Questions and ...
IELTS Speaking Cue Card Topics with Samples Answers (2024)
The IELTS Speaking test consists of three parts: Part 1. Introduction and Interview: This section involves answering general questions about yourself, your family, work, studies, or interests. Part 2. Long Turn: In this part, you'll receive a cue card with a topic and specific instructions.
IELTS Speaking Cue Card Topic: Education
Education is a cue card topic that often comes up in the IELTS speaking part 2. Below you will find a list of some exam questions and answers that you could encounter during part 2 of the IELTS Speaking test. The questions below are based on the real IELTS speaking exam. They serve as a great IELTS Speaking part 2 cue card prediction questions ...
IELTS Cue Card Samples With Answers
In the IELTS Speaking test, you will be given exactly 1 minute to prepare yourself to talk about a particular topic and this topic is called IELTS Cue card or Candidate Task Card. The instructions to guide your talk are written on a card given to you by the examiner. Your talk should last for approximately 2 minutes until the examiner asks you to stop.
IELTS Topic: Education
If we look at the topic of education and IELTS, we can quickly see that there is a huge amount of vocabulary to learn. In fact, this is a vast topic. ... Finally, we come to the obvious IELTS speaking cue card: describe a teacher. This is definitely a common cue card and also quite an easy one. I think that most people who sit IELTS should be ...
Education IELTS Speaking Part 3 Cue Card Questions with Answers
Education is a follow-up speaking topic that often comes up in the IELTS speaking part 3. Below you will find a list of some exam questions and answers that you could encounter during part 3 of the IELTS Speaking test. The questions below are based on the real IELTS speaking exam. They serve as a great IELTS Speaking part 3 prediction questions ...
IELTS Speaking Cue Cards Topics & Samples with Answers 2024
The speaking test takes around 11-14 minutes and are divided into 3 parts: Introduction & Interview: At the beginning of the interview, the interviewer will usually ask questions about generic topics such as family, education, hobbies, and work. This part lasts four to five minutes. Speak on a cue card: At first, the test-taker will be given 1 ...
IELTS Speaking Cue Card Topics: Questions and Sample Answers (2024)
The IELTS cue card format is structured to analyse your English language skills in various aspects, such as fluency and coherence, vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. The IELTS cue card topics are mostly based on personal experiences, opinions, or abstract ideas. The IELTS cue card topics and questions assess your ability to organise ...
IELTS Speaking Cue Cards: A Comprehensive Guide
A cue card is a piece of paper that will tell you to describe something and give you a few pieces of advice about how to describe it. Here is an example: This is an example of a typical IELTS cue card. I have annotated it for you. Although every cue card will be different, they will always have these three parts: The task.
Ultimate Guide To IELTS Speaking Cue Cards: Topics, Tips
The questions in the IELTS Speaking Part 2 will cover topics that include people, places, things, activities, and past occurrences. There will be 3 to 4 questions: The first 2 to 3 questions will answer the basic 'who,' 'what,' 'where,' and 'when' questions. The last question will require you to answer and explain 'why' and ...
IELTS Speaking Cue Cards 2024: Exploring Topics with Expert Sample
Strategies for Success in IELTS Speaking. 1. Thorough Preparation: Before embarking on the IELTS Speaking test, candidates should invest ample time in familiarizing themselves with common topics and practicing responses to Cue Cards. Engaging in mock speaking sessions with peers or tutors can aid in building confidence and fluency.
IELTS Speaking Cue Cards: A Comprehensive Guide to Ace Your Exam
What is a Cue Card? Before jumping onto strategies, it is imperative to have a fundamental understanding of the cue card. In the IELTS Speaking test context, a cue card is a prompt card provided to the test-taker with a specific topic and a set of questions.. The IELTS Cue Card evaluates the individual's ability to speak coherently and fluently on a given subject.
IELTS Speaking Part 2: Cue Cards, Topics & Answers
The test consists of 3 parts: IELTS Speaking Part 1: Answer questions about you and topics you know. IELTS Speaking Part 2: Prepare and present a cue card monologue. IELTS Speaking Part 3: Answer more complex questions about the monologue topic. The examiner is marking your speaking ability using the following criteria:
IELTS Speaking Cue Card Topics With Answers
Check the IELTS cue card topics and samples that appeared in the actual IELTS test with answers. Click on the website for more information. ... IELTS Speaking Cue Cards. Speaking - Part 1 Speaking - Part 2 & 3 Speaking - Band Descriptors; IELTS Speaking Cue Card Views: 8674.
15 IELTS Speaking Cue Cards with follow up questions
In this tutorial, we look at 15 IELTS Speaking cue cards with follow-up questions. For the IELTS Speaking section of your IELTS exam, you are given 1 minute by the examiner to prepare yourself to talk about a specific topic. This topic will be called a cue. The cue card topic as well as instructions about the topic are written as a guide.
IELTS Speaking Cue Cards
IELTS is a well-known English proficiency test that is accepted by many of the world's top colleges. IELTS scores are accepted by over 1000 institutions and colleges in over 140 countries worldwide. The test has four sections: reading, writing, speaking and listening.The speaking component of the IELTS is thought to be the easiest of all but what's tricky is it's Part 2 commonly known as ...
A teacher who has influenced you in your education
Describe a teacher who has influenced you in your education. You should say: • where you met him/her. • what subject he/she taught. • what was special about him/her. and explain why this person/teacher has influenced you so much. [You will have to talk about the topic for one to two minutes. You have one minute to think about what you are ...
IELTS Speaking Part 2 Topics & Cue Cards with Answers
Look no further! We have compiled a list of cue cards on the most common topics, such as travel, sport, hobbies, movies, family, education, and technology. Additionally, we have provided sample answers to each cue card to help you improve your speaking skills and gain insight into what examiners are looking for.
IELTS Cue Card Samples with Answers for IELTS Speaking Part 2
The cue card section or the IELTS Speaking section 2 is the most important and challenging section of the speaking test. In this part, you will find IELTS speaking cue card samples and their model answers for the majority of the cue card question types. Go through them to understand the ways in which you can speak effectively in your IELTS exam.
Top 10 IELTS Speaking Cue Card Topics
Here are 10 popular cue cards topics/ideas for IELTS speaking: Describe a place you have visited that you particularly enjoyed. When answering this question, you should describe the location, why you enjoyed it, what you did there, and any memorable experiences or sights you had while visiting. Sample: Describe a place.
Describe a town or city where you would like to live in the future
Desc ribe a special day or a memory of your school or collage days IELTS cue card; Describe a street market in your city IELTS cue card; Describe an argument two of your friends had IELTS cue card; Describe a natural talent you want to improve like sports music IELTS cue card; Describe a law on environmental protection IELTS cue card; Credits :
Describe a cafe you like to visit IELTS cue card
Model Answers and follow up questions to describe a cafe you like to visit IELTS cue card: Model Answer 1: Introduction: Well, it is pretty common these days to visit cafe's to have a cup of tea or coffee. Here I would like to talk about a cafe I regularly visit to sit and enjoy talks with my friends.
Describe a Town or City Where You Would Like to Live in the Future
Sample 1. Thank you for the cue card. I am going to talk about the topic of the city or town I would like to live in. Well, choosing the city or town for education and work purposes is somewhat difficult in my opinion because we have to look after a lot of comfortable things and facilities. Here I would like to talk about the city Hyderabad ...

Education: IELTS Cue Card Topics

Unveiling ‘Education’ in the IELTS Speaking Section

Guide to Discussing ‘Education’ in the IELTS Speaking Section

Sample ‘Education’ Topics

Different Cue Card Topics

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IELTS Speaking Cue Card Topics with Samples Answers (2024)

What is a Cue?

What is an IELTS Cue Card?

List of IELTS Cue Card Topics

How to Approach an IELTS Cue Card?

Different Parts of the IELTS Speaking Test

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IELTS Speaking Cue Cards Topics & Samples with Answers 2024

IELTS Cue cards Topics Section wise

What is a Cue Card?

Parts of IELTS Speaking Test

How are IELTS Cue Cards Marked?

IELTS Speaking Cue Cards Topics 2024

List Of Expected Speaking Cue Cards 2024

Work/study:

Emotions/aspirations:

Occasions :

Something important:

Someone :

Child :

Who you admire:

Interesting:

Your country:

Routine

Experience

Entertainment

Other cue cards:

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IELTS Speaking Cue Card Topics: Questions and Sample Answers (2024)

IELTS Speaking Cue Cards

List of IELTS Cue card questions

Travel and Holidays

Education and Learning

Food and Cooking

Environment and Nature

IELTS cue card topics

Describe a course that you want to learn in future.

Describe a memorable event from your childhood.

Talk about your favourite book or movie.

Describe a place you would like to visit.

Discuss a person who has had a significant impact on your life.

Talk about a hobby or activity you enjoy.

Describe a recent travel experience.

Talk about a technological device you find useful.

Describe an achievement you are proud of.

Discuss a cultural event or festival you have attended.

Talk about a challenging situation you faced and how you dealt with it.

IELTS cue card with sample questions and answers

Frequently asked questions

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IELTS Speaking Cue Cards: A Comprehensive Guide

What is an IELTS cue card?

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Analyse the cue card

Types of IELTS cue card

How to answer an IELTS cue card

Planning your answer

Making notes

Giving a good answer

What about really difficult cue cards?

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David S. Wills

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Family and Friends [IELTS Topic]