The IELTS Speaking test is the only phase of this examination where the candidates are tested on their ability to speak English. Part 2, also known as the IELTS Cue Card phase, is the most difficult section of the Speaking exam. The test evaluates the applicant's ability for coherent and detailed speech, which can be stressful. Hence, we are here with this blog to acquaint you with structure, purpose, and practical tips for mastering the IELTS Speaking Part 2 speech cue card!
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What is an IELTS Cue Card?
A cue card is provided to the candidate by the examiner that references a specific cue on which you have to speak. The card will also include 2-4 pointers that can be utilised to elaborate upon. Within 3-4 minutes, you will be given a minute to structure your answer. This can be done by jotting the important points on paper. Following the one-minute preparation period, the examiner will ask you to begin answering.
Your Speaking scores are given as band scores, ranging from band 0 to 9. Every whole and half band score represents a proficiency level in English. Remember that part 2 has more weight than part 1.
The breakdown of the duration of the cue card section is added below:
|
Duration |
11–14 minutes |
|
Number of Parts |
3 |
|
Band Score Range |
0-9 |
|
Test Mode |
Offline/Online |
Suggested: IELTS Exam Fees in India
Why are IELTS Cue Cards Important?
The IELTS cue cards are an essential part of the speaking section of the exam. They are essentially prompts that provide you with a topic to talk about for two minutes. Here's why they are important!
Describe an Object You Find Particularly Beautiful: Sample Answer 1
For my cue card on "Describe an object you find particularly beautiful", I would like to talk about this handcrafted ceramic vase that appeals to me.
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Where is the artwork/object?
A Romanian expert artisan handcrafted and moulded this beautiful vase. Its allure draws me in since it infuses my house with a little bit of nature and strengthens my connection with the outdoors.
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What does it look like?
Its elegant shape and soft curves are reminiscent of the outline of a blooming flower. The earthy colours and elaborate patterns decorate the surface, adding warmth to the overall design.
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Please explain why you find it particularly beautiful.
I find this handcrafted ceramic vase particularly beautiful because it makes me feel at ease and grateful for the beauty that can be found in the most basic things. It is a work of art that captures the essence of both human creation and the beauty of the natural world.
Describe an Object You Find Particularly Beautiful: Sample Answer 2
My cue card is on "Describe an object you find particularly beautiful." The one thing that springs to my mind after reading this is carpets, and that is what I am going to elaborate on.
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Where is the artwork/object?
As per my experience, very few homes I've visited have carpets. However, my home has rich, wall-to-wall Persian-made carpets in all the rooms. Their classic beauty is enhanced by their handmade quality and authenticity, elevating the aesthetics of my entire home.
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What does it look like?
The Persian carpets in my home are shiny and shaded according to the walls of each room. As the carpet is composed of premium wool, walking, sitting, or sleeping on it feels pleasant and smooth.
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Please explain why you find it particularly beautiful.
People can use a neutral carpet to tie a room together or a statement rug to define an area. Similarly, bold geometric designs can add a modern touch, while vintage designs can provide a more traditional feel. In all, I find carpets beautiful because of their designs, versatility, and the comfort and warmth they offer.
Describe an Object You Find Particularly Beautiful: Sample Answer 3
For my cue card on "Describe an object you find particularly beautiful", I would like to talk about my grandfather's vintage pocket watch.
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Where is the artwork/object?
It is an object I inherited from my grandfather, so its sentimental value makes it truly beautiful to me. Holding the pocket watch allows me to step back in time and establish a connection with my ancestry. A feeling of warmth is evoked by the weight of the metal, the ticking rhythm, and the accompanying memories.
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What does it look like?
This pocket watch was meticulously created with care and attention to detail. Roman numerals are delicately engraved on the face, and the metal casing displays superb craftsmanship. Its classic ticking sound serves as a reminder of the artistry that went into its making.
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Explain why you find it particularly beautiful.
I find this antique pocket watch a lovely piece of art that thrives. It is a treasure because of its design and the feelings it generates in me, which bring to mind the enduring ties I shared with my grandfather.
Describe an Object You Find Particularly Beautiful: Sample Answer 4
I think we all have that one photo frame that has been in the house forever. For the cue card on "Describe an object you find particularly beautiful", I would like to talk about one such photo frame in my home.
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Where is the artwork/object?
This photo frame consists of my siblings and my pictures from when we were preschoolers. It has been comfortably sitting on my hall room's centre table for two decades, moved from my prior home to the current one.
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What does it look like?
The photo frame was gifted to my parents by my aunt, who bought it during her trip to Kashmir. It is a beautiful wooden frame, consisting of three artistically cut pictures. One of the pictures is of my eldest sister victoriously smiling and receiving a prize for a dance performance; the second one is of my brother standing clueless on a stage, dressed in yellow as per the theme; and the third one is of me dressed as Santa Claus on Christmas in my kindergarten.
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Please explain why you find it particularly beautiful.
There are several frames in my home, but this one is my favourite. Looking at it reminds me of the good old days when I did not have to wake up every day and battle with the world's sense of body image and my will to dress however I wish to. Looking at this photo frame triggers memories from my entire childhood, always leaving me smiling ear-to-ear.
Sample/Follow-Up Questions and Answers
Following your response to the IELTS cue card about describing an object you find particularly beautiful, the following follow-up questions may be asked:
Q1. How do you care for and preserve the object's beauty?
Ans. To avoid dirt and grime buildup, I regularly clean and dust the objects regularly. However, I use proper cleaning substances that will not harm the objects, and adhere to any care recommendations provided.
Q2. How do you acquire or discover attractive objects around you?
Ans. Engaging with a varied network of people and requesting recommendations from friends, family, and colleagues frequently led me to discover beautiful objects. Personal connections and shared experiences have the potential to reveal hidden gems and one-of-a-kind pieces of beauty.
Q3. Do you think your sense of the object's beauty has changed over time, or has it remained the same?
Ans. My assessment of the object's beauty has been consistent. While external variables can alter, the object's attractiveness has endured and continues to resonate with me.
How to Score 8777 in IELTS: Importance & Tips
Tips to Answer the IELTS Cue Card
Here are some tips to ace the IELTS Speaking Cue Card section!
Conclusion
The IELTS speaking section part 2 is an elemental tool to evaluate the aspirants' ability to communicate effectively and think on their feet. This allows the test takers to confidently know that they will be able to navigate their lives abroad, as communication is one of the most important means to do so.
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