The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) scores are necessary for non-native English speakers to pursue higher education or a career in native English countries like the US, UK, Australia, and more.
One of its sections, the IELTS Speaking Part 2 is considered one of the most difficult. Here, you are given cue cards upon which you must speak for approximately two minutes. In this blog, we've covered one of the most popular cue cards - describe an interesting conversation you had. Going through this blog will increase your familiarity with this particular card, and help you understand how this section tests your English proficiency by analysing your coherence and vocabulary.
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What is an IELTS Cue Card?
The IELTS speaking part 2 requires the candidate to convey their experiences or viewpoints about a certain topic, based on a cue. They are used to assess the candidates' eloquence, confidence, and vocabulary. As the duration given for it is just two minutes, you must smartly convey a wholesome answer by including important points only. Luckily, the cue cards also have 3-4 pointers that you can expound on.
Why are IELTS Cue Cards Important?
IELTS cue cards are an essential part of the speaking section of the IELTS exam. They are prompts that provide you with a topic to talk about for two minutes. Here's why they are important!
- The weightage of Cue cards is more in the IELTS speaking test. Out of the 9 bands in IELTS Speaking, cue card weightage is of 4 bands.
- The cue card tests enable examiners to evaluate your English language proficiency by assessing how confidently and fluently you speak.
- It tests your ability to think within 1-minute duration.
- Your Cue Card task score affects your speaking score. This score is crucial for meeting language requirements in top institutions.
- The follow-up questions required you to use a wide range of vocabulary to discuss the answer in detail.
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"Describe an Interesting Conversation You Had" - Sample Answer 1
In the bustling hallways of my college's debate club, I engaged in a thought-provoking debate with the opposing team, the impact of which has lasted with me until now. For my cue card on "Describe an interesting conversation you had", I would like to talk about that debate.
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How Did it Begin?
The debate topic was - "Should artificial intelligence have legal protections identical to humans?" This topic instantly provoked an outpouring of counterargumentative ideas from both sides. As the debate progressed, we covered the moral dilemmas, scientific breakthroughs, and societal effects of granting artificial intelligence legal personality. Every participant contributed important details and refutations, raising the discussion's intensity.
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Describe the Depth of the Conversation
The views presented ranged from ardent supporters of AI rights to sceptics worried about the possible repercussions. In addition to being intellectually stimulating, discussing viewpoints improved my understanding of this challenging issue.
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How Was it Impactful?
The debate made me reevaluate my viewpoints and assumptions. It inspired me to delve more into the research and think about the moral conundrums raised by the advancement of AI. I was deeply impacted by the extensive research and commitment of my classmates. I now have greater respect for the ability of communication to foster understanding.
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Conclusion
Having thought-provoking discussions, such as this one, shows how transformational communication can be. I believe it is important for interpersonal growth as it promotes acceptance of others' viewpoints.
"Describe an Interesting Conversation You Had" - Sample Answer 2
For my cue card on "Describe an interesting conversation you had", I would like to recount this unexpected deep conversation I had with a stranger.
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How Did it Begin?
It was the monsoon season, and I was seeking refuge in a cosy cafe tucked in Mumbai's heart. The soothing scent of freshly made coffee and the light splatter of raindrops provided a welcoming environment for reflection and interaction. As I was sipping a cup of hazelnut hot chocolate, the chime of the cafe's door pulled my gaze to a customer who sought refuge from the rain, like me. A shared grin and a simple comment about the weather sparked a conversation that exceeded the scope of small talk.
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Describe the Depth of the Conversation
Despite being strangers minutes before, our willingness to open up was impressive. Our conversation quickly delved into sharing moments of our life's joys and tribulations which is rarely expected in accidental meetings. Together, we drew a tapestry of important events while talking about our passions, fears, and dreams. I found comfort in the relativity of our experiences, making me feel understood.
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How Was it Impactful?
Long after the rain had ceased and the cafe emptied, the warmth of our conversation lingered like a gentle hug. It encouraged me to accept my flaws and not strive for perfection. It left a lasting psychological impact on me as a source of inspiration and hope in a chaotic world.
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Conclusion
I felt a wave of gratitude as I said goodbye to my new acquaintance, realizing how much the chance encounter had improved my day. It restored my belief in the life-changing potential of genuine connection and its profound impact, even during the briefest of times.
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"Describe an Interesting Conversation You Had" - Sample Answer 3
Sometimes, the most impactful conversations can occur in the most unexpected places and people. For my cue card on "Describe an interesting conversation you had", I would like to share this exchange I had with a street seller, who was selling handicrafts.
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How Did it Begin?
While searching for a tote bag in the infamous Colaba Market in Mumbai, I came across this shop that had the most beautiful handcrafted tote bags I had spotted so far. A simple enquiry regarding the seller's profession sparked a discussion that highlighted the nuanced aspects of culture, customs, and individuality.
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Describe the Depth of the Conversation
Alongside the varied conversations happening in the background, we dove into his background and traced the genealogy of the craft through generations of artisans. His speech produced striking portrayals of a civilization struggling to stay rooted in tradition against the steady advancement of the digitalized world. His narratives emphasized the enduring power of tradition to shape and enrich our lives.
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How Was it Impactful?
The conversation served as a sombre reminder of how important it is to preserve traditions in the face of rapid social and economic change. It caused me to reconsider my views on development and growth, which led to a deeper appreciation of the value of custom and community.
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Conclusion
Feeling grateful for our chance encounter, I left the bustling marketplace streets. This conversation served as a poignant reminder of the transforming power of human connection and the endless possibilities that result from exchanging ideas, stories, and life experiences.
"Describe an Interesting Conversation You Had" - Sample Answer 4
Some people have a unique ability to put forth their viewpoints, fearless of being judged. Such conversations often make the other person reconsider their stance, some more than others. I had one such compelling exchange with an Uber driver, and would like to talk about it for my cue card on "Describe an interesting conversation you had."
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How Did it Begin?
I was returning home after taking a university entrance test, drained. However, the Uber I booked was driven by an extroverted man. He had a relaxed demeanour and a comforting smile. Some minutes after the ride began, we engaged in small talk. He asked me what I was pursuing and how my exam went, while I enquired where he was from and how long he had been a driver for. Steadily, the conversation shifted to more advanced topics, like religion, politics, and economy.
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Describe the Depth of the Conversation
Not long into the conversation, I realised that we had opposing mindsets about most topics we spoke about. I conveyed some straightforward facts, which he countered with more complex and well-researched points. I was taken aback by how educated he was about the world and how strongly he proposed his viewpoints. The exchange was so easy and insightful, that an entire hour passed until I reached home.
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How Was it Impactful?
This exchange was impactful because it enlightened me to the depths of the global political and economic scenes, and how they affect every human. What I knew was surface level and based on the news. However, his viewpoints stemmed from experiences, research, and examples.
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Conclusion
It taught me that one can think they know the whole story until they hear it from someone who's lived it.
Suggested: Describe a Historical Period - IELTS Cue Card
Sample/Follow-Up Questions and Answers
Following your response to the IELTS cue card about describing an interesting conversation you had, you will be required to answer a few questions. This can last for a minute. Based on this particular cue card, these follow-up questions may be asked:
Q1. How can conversations help to create interpersonal relationships?
A1. A conversation is the starting point for developing mutual understanding, trust, and a sense of connectedness. When people honestly exchange views, feelings, and goals, there is a certain vulnerability. That fosters empathy, attentive listening, and emotional support that contribute to developing interpersonal ties.
Q2. How do you believe education levels affect conversational skills?
A2. Education level influences conversational skills by moulding vocabulary and linguistic competency. Individuals with higher education levels may have a more extensive choice of things to discuss and a more sophisticated knowledge about the same. However, practice and experience are also critical for maintaining a good conversation.
Q3. How may technology influence the dynamics of conversations?
A3. Undeniably, one of the top advantages of technology is that it fosters long-distance communication. However, overreliance on technology may reduce the quality of discussions, limiting prospects for meaningful relationships and actual participation.
Q4. How can empathy help to create compelling conversations?
A4. Empathy enables people to view situations from someone else's shoes, resulting in deeper ties and meaningful exchanges. By demonstrating empathy, people may foster a welcoming environment that promotes candid dialogue and reciprocal respect.
Tips to Answer the IELTS Cue Card
Understandably, the cue card section can be a little unnerving. To speak on a topic within just two minutes can be difficult. Hence, presented below are some tips to ace the IELTS Speaking Cue Card section!
- Tip 1: Understand the topic. Make sure you address every question.
- Tip 2: Improve your pronunciation and intonation. Speak clearly, without interruptions.
- Tip 3: Be conscious of your pace. Speaking very fast can lead to mistakes. Speaking slowly may make it seem like you're struggling to speak.
- Tip 4: Expand your vocabulary. Present your ideas clearly and avoid repeating the same words.
- Tip 5: Demonstrate your English proficiency by using compound and complex sentences.
- Tip 6: Stay calm. It’s okay to be nervous, but don’t let it overwhelm you. Practise sufficiently to answer the question.
- Tip 7: Be sincere in your engagement with the issue. Personal experiences and examples may help you provide a more persuasive solution.
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Conclusion
Discussions are the foundation of human interaction, affecting our understanding, relationships, and worldview. They provide possibilities for learning, empathy, and connection to cross-cultural, social, and geographic borders. As we manage our linked world's intricacies, meaningful discussions become critical to encouraging understanding and togetherness. Platforms such as Yocket offer a digital platform for people to engage in conversations, discuss varied ideas, and embark on educational adventures together. Let us embrace dialogue's ability to transcend gaps, inspire change, and foster a more inclusive and integrated global community. Join Yocket today to participate in this dynamic exchange of ideas and experiences.
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