How to Prepare Cue Card/Task Card, Pattern, Topics & Test Samples with Answer

IELTS Cue Card: In this post, we’ll talk about IELTS Cue Card, also known as IELTS Task Card, which is Part 2 of the IELTS Speaking Test. We will discuss the format of the exam, a few examples, and then the approach to studying.

Pattern for IELTS Speaking Test, Part 3 (Discussion)
You will converse with the examiner on the subject covered in Part 2 during this portion of the exam. A dialogue back and forth with the examiner will be required. For instance, if you were asked to describe your hotel stay in Part 2, the topic of the discussion in Part 3 may be related to hotel management. You will be evaluated on your capacity to articulate your thoughts and your capacity to cover a wide range of topics in this more abstract discussion. Part 3 typically lasts 4-5 minutes.

Sample IELTS Speaking Exam (Cue Card)

The topics asked on the Cue Card fall within 6 primary headings, as was previously noted. Let’s examine a few of the instances:

Example 1: The IELTS Cue Card Test question titled “People.”
IELTS Cue Card: Tips for Preparation

Now that you are fully aware of the Cue Cards, let’s first discuss what you ought to do on the day of the test:

The task card’s main topic should be your main focus, and you should use the bullet points as a guide. Instead of concentrating on the bullet points, your text should concentrate on the main idea.

Vocabulary: Avoid making your discussion unnecessarily complex. Only use complex language when absolutely essential. Avoid using terms like “blandish” if you wish to use the word “flattery,” for example. Avoid forcing difficult words on the examiner in an effort to impress them; they will catch you. But if you feel the words are essential, say them.

Be logical: Always make sure that your responses are coherent and that you are responding to the question at hand. Make sure there is a clear framework while you are writing the notes based on the Cue Card. Do not give the examiner the impression that you lack mental organization.

You’ll perform better if you concentrate on pronunciation clarity rather than a made-up accent. The examiner’s ability to understand what you are saying clearly is more crucial.

Until the examiner tells you to stop, keep talking. You will become more adept at structuring your ideas and communicating them in a time-limited manner with practice.

Let’s see what you should avoid doing now:

Don’t provide memorized responses. The examiner will recognize this right away. The third part of the Speaking Test, which is the next, is another way the examiner can tell if you have memorized material.

Avoid being too fixated on the bullet points to avoid running out of ideas. Only intended to aid you in responding to the question, these bullet points.

Here are some more pointers for Part 3 (Discussion), which has been linked to Part 2 as was previously stated:

Be an educated individual: This section, which will require a conversation between you and the examiner, may be a little more abstract. Reading widely will always make you sound more at ease when speaking about a subject.

You can support your response with actual instances. You might bring up SpaceX or NASA in a debate about space technology, for instance.

Answers should not be very brief or one line. If you do, you will be showing the examiner that you are unable to conduct a thorough discussion on a subject and that you have thus far merely provided memorized responses.

Never omit a question. You should make an effort to respond to any query that arises during the conversation. IELTS is not a knowledge test; instead, it evaluates your English and communication skills.

Let’s take a look at some of the tools you’ll need to prepare for the cue card portion of the speaking test.

https://www.ielts.org/: It is the IELTS official website. No matter which component you want to study for, you must begin with this page. You will gain a thorough understanding of the test format. Additionally, you can browse the official IELTS study guides and practice questions.

The Official Cambridge Guide to the IELTS should serve as the foundation of your study plan. The official guide and webpage should be carefully read and revised.

Speaking for IELTS: Rachel Mitchell’s Tips: This book offers methods, justifications, frameworks, and hints & advice. You can use it to help you get ready for all three sections of the speaking test.

Collins Speaking for IELTS: The book contains a solid balance of theory, examples, and advice, and it is neatly organized.

Recorder: The books described above and the internet both have a sufficient quantity of topics. Speak about these subjects while recording your remarks. You will gain insight into your speaking style and the areas that require work. Newspapers and magazines are another source for topic ideas. You can gather knowledge that can be helpful in Part 3 of the Speaking Test by reading newspapers and periodicals.

Use the Cambly app to have a one-on-one video conversation with native speakers. As you become more acquainted to the language and accent, this will help you enhance your speaking and listening abilities.

Cue Card FAQs for IELTS

How long does the IELTS speaking section last?

A. The IELTS speaking component lasts 11 to 14 minutes overall.

How long does the IELTS Cue Card part last?

A. The IELTS Cue Card segment lasts roughly 3 to 4 minutes altogether.

Which IELTS Cure Card topics are available?

A. The six primary categories of IELTS Cue Card subjects are places, people, things, situations, work, and study. IELTS Cue Card subjects under these headings include, among others, “home,” “family,” “food,” “books,” “birthday,” “workplace,” and “study area.”

Should I utilize challenging IELTS vocabulary for the cue card section?

A robust vocabulary is helpful, but you should watch out for overusing tough words in your statements. Instead of making up words, use organic, natural language.

What sources should I use first to prepare for the IELTS Cue Card?

A. The Official Cambridge Guide to IELTS and the official IELTS website are the best places to start while preparing for the IELTS Cue Card.