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An essential component of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam, the Speaking test measures a person’s competency in the English language. The IELTS cue card question type portion, one of its many sections, requires applicants to talk fluently for a predetermined amount of time on a certain subject.
This is an intriguing and important part of the IELTS Speaking test since it assesses not just language proficiency but also fluency, coherence, and communication skills. We will discuss the significance of the IELTS Speaking cue card questions in this blog, providing analysis and advice to help you confidently ace this part.
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What is an IELTS Cue Card?
The Speaking module’s IELTS Cue Card, also known as Task-2, is the hardest because students are handed a card with prompts and a topic on it. Students get one to two minutes to make a comment about the subject. The candidate’s ability to talk, use proper words, and articulate concepts fluently is assessed using a Cue Card. The subjects can range from autobiographical anecdotes to giving my ideas or debating an issue.
IELTS Speaking test format
A speaking test consists of three sections:
Section 1: 4–5 minutes Overview and interview:
In addition to verifying your identity, the IELTS examiner will introduce themselves and ask you to do the same. The examiner will ask you general questions about your interests, employment, studies, and family.
Section Two: (3–4 minutes) Individual long turn:
A cue card containing a topic and some things you might discuss in your speech will be handed to you by the examiner. A notepad and pencil will be available for you to take notes during your one-minute allotment to reflect and get ready for the subject. After you have finished brainstorming, you will get one to two minutes to talk about the topic, after which the examiner will ask you some questions.
Section 3: 4–5 minutes Two-way conversation:
Additional questions about the subject covered in Part 2 of the Speaking test will be posed by the examiner. This is your chance to discuss other concepts.
What are the cue card questions in the IELTS test?
One particular kind of Speaking task on the IELTS exam is called an IELTS cue card question. Candidates are given a topic card or cue card with a brief explanation of a certain topic and several questions or prompts pertaining to that topic in this section of the IELTS Speaking test.
After then, test-takers get a minute to get ready and take notes on the subject listed on the cue card. Following this brief period of preparation, they must talk for one to two minutes on the subject, answering the prompts and offering pertinent facts, viewpoints, and examples.
The IELTS cue card questions are designed to test a candidate’s language competency, vocabulary, and pronunciation in addition to their ability to communicate clearly and smoothly on a particular topic.
Cue Card
You should say:
- Where it is
- How you knew it
- How often you go there
- What you do there
And explain how you feel about the place
Example Answer: A Model Response for “describe a quiet place you like to spend time in”
I want to discuss one of my favorite peaceful spots that I occasionally visit. This peaceful spot, which I occasionally enjoy visiting, is situated in a little valley some distance from my house and is bordered by a garden with a variety of native flora. Since there are no water streams in the area, I’m not sure how or when the valley was formed, but I’ve always believed that this little valley might have a fascinating past.
However, due of its genuinely peaceful surroundings, this valley seems to be hundreds of miles away from society when I visit it with a disturbed or restless mind. Of course, the sound of the birds chirping in the nearby native garden is plainly audible, but it is very different from the clamor of a bustling city. The sound of the birds chirping actually gives me a sense of comfort since it reminds me of all the great things in an otherwise difficult world.
I prefer to come here just in the late morning because I can appreciate the cool, soft southern breeze, which helps to soothe my usually agitated thoughts. By the way, I enjoy coming here because I can see the entire sky in all of its colors in addition to the fact that it’s peaceful.
In any case, as the last time, I spent the majority of my time here trekking over the valley. But when I visited there the last time, I also lay down on the ground and read a book for a bit.
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Tips to approach cue card questions in your Speaking task 2
If you approach the Speaking task 2 IELTS cue card questions correctly, you can significantly raise your score. The following advice can help you respond to cue card questions:
1. Pay close attention:
When the examiner offers you the cue card, read it carefully and make sure you understand the subject and the precise task you are supposed to complete.
2. Make use of the one-minute preparation period:
You will have one minute to get your response ready after reading the cue card. Make good use of this time by writing down a few main ideas or a succinct summary of your thoughts. Make a note of the key points or concepts you wish to discuss in your response.
3. Organize your response:
Divide it into three sections: the introduction, the body, and the conclusion. You can provide a well-structured and cohesive response by using this format.
- Introduce yourself briefly by summarizing the cue card or expressing your comprehension of the subject. This could be one or two sentences.
- Body: Two to three key ideas or points pertaining to the subject should make up the body of your response. Extend these ideas with specifics, illustrations, and justifications. For clarity, each point should be in its own paragraph.
- Summarize your main arguments or offer a closing reflection on the subject to wrap up your response. This gives your response closure.
4. Preserve coherence and fluency:
Speak slowly and clearly. Steer wary of talking too quickly, as this can make you less understandable. To improve coherence, use suitable transitional phrases (such as “Firstly,” “Furthermore,” and “In addition”) to logically connect your ideas.
5. Employ a variety of vocabulary:
Make an effort to incorporate a number of terms and phrases that are pertinent to the subject. This will show how proficient you are in the language and may help you get a better vocabulary score.
6. Give concrete examples:
Whenever feasible, bolster your arguments with particular instances, firsthand knowledge, or stories. This makes your reaction more interesting and gives it more depth.
7. Keep eye contact:
Make an effort to keep your gaze on the examiner as you speak. It demonstrates assurance and interest in the discussion.
8. Don’t memorize responses:
While practicing and preparing for various topics is OK, don’t commit entire responses to memory. Examiners are taught to spot scripted or memorized responses, which can lead to lower results.
9. Time management:
The recommended speaking time for this activity is two minutes, so try to speak for that amount of time. While you’re getting ready, try timing yourself.
10. Be confident and natural:
Don’t worry too much about your response or overthink it. Talk as though you were having a discussion. Your score can be raised by projecting confidence and delivering your message naturally.
11. Be prepared to continue the conversation:
The examiner may ask you follow-up questions about the cue card topic after you have finished speaking. Be ready to have a brief conversation about the same topic.
12. Practice frequently:
To increase your confidence and fluency, practice speaking on a variety of subjects. To assess and enhance your performance, think about recording yourself or rehearsing with a speaking partner.
