Cue Cards Samples with band 8 answers
An important occasion or event you have attended - Cue Card # 447
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IELTS Speaking Part 2: IELTS Cue Card/ Candidate Task Card.
[The topic for your talk will be written on a card which the examiner will hand over to you. Read it carefully and then make some brief notes.]
Describe an important occasion or event (such as a wedding or a celebration) you have attended.
You should say:
- when and where you attended this occasion.
- who else attended this occasion or event
- what you did
and explain how much you enjoyed it.
[Instruction: You will have to talk about the topic for one to two minutes. You have one minute to think about what you are going to say. You can make some notes to help you if you wish.]
Model Answer 1:
In this busy life of ours, we never really like to miss an opportunity to celebrate a little. Today, I'd like to talk about one such opportunity, which allowed me to celebrate the marriage anniversary of one of my dear uncles.
It was the 30th marriage anniversary of my uncle and his wife, but it felt like their very first anniversary, because there was no shortage of passion, emotion and fun during the occasion. Of course, the 30th anniversary, which I attended a couple of years ago at my uncle’s place, was a bit different in the sense that my uncle and aunt didn’t really buy any gifts for each other since I, along with a few of my other cousins (both boys and girls), bought all kinds of gifts for them.
By the way, prior to that anniversary, my uncle didn’t only buy gifts for his love of life and vice versa, but also for each and every one of his nephews and nieces, because he really, really loves all of them. So, we all thought that it was time for us to return the favour a little since we had grown up by then and had our own money.
Anyway, a few dozen guests had attended the party, including us, our relatives and some of my uncle’s old friends as well as those of my aunt’s. On the anniversary, I wrote a song myself and played it with my age-old guitar (which my uncle had bought for me when I was a young high school student). Besides, a couple of my lady cousins had made a huge anniversary cake along with many other delicious dishes for us to enjoy.
Well, I enjoyed the anniversary a lot. After all, there was plenty of sense of humour to poke fun at each other. Besides, what was especially pleasing about that anniversary was that everybody there had many good things to say about my uncle and aunt, which I didn’t know before that day.
Sample Answer 2:
Well, when I was thinking about a recent ‘important occasion’ I attended, just after looking at this topic, a sad event came to my mind. Here, I will talk about this occasion.
So the occasion was just last month. I had to go to the funeral of an elderly relative of mine who died at the age of ninety. The funeral was held about a five-hour drive away from where I live, so it was a long way to go to be there to say goodbye, but it was very important to me to be there. I was very close to her. We were relatives, but only very distant ones. I’d got to know her as an adult, and we had exchanged letters with each other on a regular basis for over 25 years – that’s a quarter of a century.
She herself had lived a full and interesting life, travelling all over the world and publishing many eminent papers on a range of topics. The last time I saw her was to join her for a celebratory lunch for her ninetieth birthday. She was mentally strong, but physically frail, and it was clear she was treating this occasion as a farewell meal. It wasn’t a surprise to me that she died a few weeks later. Of course, I wanted to be at her funeral, as it was really important to be there to ‘send her off’ with affection, and share memories of her life with others who knew her and cared for her too.
This relative had never married and didn’t have children. Even so, there were many people there. She would have been really pleased to see friends and neighbours, as well as family members, join the goodbyes. She did have some nieces and nephews, as well as me, a cousin, who were all at her last birthday meal. Together, we came up with memories of her to include in the Eulogy about her life that was read at the ceremony.
I suggested a range of readings that I thought were appropriate to her interests in the natural world and he enthusiasm for literature. The funeral itself was poignant, of course, but it was also a joyful celebration and recognition of a full and unique life. She had lived life to the full, as the saying goes, and frankly was ready to go at the end. Her passing will leave a huge gap in the world, but although it may sound strange, the funeral was joyful too.
My role was to contribute ideas for the Eulogy and to start the service with a reading. I chose one from The Tempest, one of Shakespeare’s plays. It is quite a famous extract, and is probably used at funerals a lot, as it is quite appropriate. It starts ‘our revels now are ended’ and I think she would have appreciated it as she loved Shakespeare very much.
I don’t think I’d use the word ‘enjoy’ as such for a funeral, as it doesn’t seem entirely fitting. However, I found the ceremony and the gathering for tea and sandwiches that followed it incredibly comforting. It was lovely to hear stories of this relative that I’d not heard before from other people, and share happy memories. I believe as long as you talk about people and remember them, they are still with you in a way.
[ Written by - Lucy Marris: Careers Adviser (UK), TEFL teacher (Vietnam) ]
Sample Answer 3:
Well, one of the most memorable events I can recall was my cousin Jisan’s birthday celebration a few years ago. It stands out in my memory because it was a lively party, and it gave me the rare opportunity to see so many of my relatives all together in one place.
The celebration was held in a large party hall in my hometown, and my uncle and aunt went all out since they were planning to move to Australia permanently a few months later. It was Jisan’s 12th birthday, and they invited more than 300 people, including relatives, family friends, colleagues, and neighbours. The atmosphere was festive, with decorations, music, and a lot of laughter.
For me, the highlight was reuniting with my cousins, many of whom I hadn’t seen in years. The moment I arrived, I saw a group of them chatting in a corner, and as soon as they spotted me, we all rushed to greet each other. We spent the whole evening catching up, taking photos, and joking around as if no time had passed. It felt wonderful to reconnect and share that warmth.
Of course, I didn’t forget the birthday boy. I gave Jisan a gift, wished him well, and reminded my uncle to visit us before their big move. There was also a huge dinner spread, which we enjoyed together as one big family.
I think what made the event so special was the combination of joy and nostalgia. Celebrating this birthday while also realising it was almost a farewell also made it special for me. In retrospect, I cherish the memory because it wasn’t just about cake and presents, but about family bonding and togetherness.
Model Answer 4:
Introduction:
Thank you very much for giving me this interesting topic and also for allowing me the time to talk about it. The occasion I'd like to describe for this topic is my elder sister’s graduation ceremony, which I consider one of the most memorable events I've ever attended.
When and where you attended this occasion:
It happened about two years ago at the main auditorium of her university. I still remember the day vividly because the whole campus was buzzing with excitement, decorated with banners, flowers, and a sea of graduates in their gowns and caps. The atmosphere was so festive, and I was waiting in excitement and anticipation.
Who else attended this occasion or event:
Apart from my parents and me, my maternal uncle and aunt joined us on that day. Of course, the hall was filled with hundreds of graduating students and their families, along with professors and distinguished guests. The presence of so many happy families, all celebrating a milestone, made the event feel truly grand.
What you did:
During the ceremony, I sat with my parents, clapping and cheering whenever a graduate’s name was called. But the most emotional moment was when my sister walked across the stage to receive her degree. I stood up, cheered for her loudly, and even captured the moment on my phone. After the formal programme, we all took countless photos, congratulated my sister, and later went out for a celebratory dinner with the whole family.
And explain how much you enjoyed it:
I enjoyed the event immensely, not just because it was a joyous occasion, but because it symbolised years of my sister’s hard work and perseverance. Watching her succeed inspired me personally, and it also strengthened the bond in our family as we all shared that sense of pride and happiness together. It was one of those days when I felt genuinely grateful to be part of a supportive family, and that’s why this occasion will always remain special to me.
Idea generation for this Candidate task card / Cue card topic:
Occasions like weddings, cultural ceremonies, birthdays or community gatherings often become lasting memories. They bring people together, create joy, and mark important milestones. Below are a few ideas you can use to describe an important occasion or event you attended. Each gives you a context, the people involved, your role, and why it was enjoyable or meaningful.
1. A traditional wedding ceremony:
I attended a close relative’s wedding in a large banquet hall about two years ago. Friends, family members, and community elders all gathered to celebrate. I participated by helping with decorations and greeting guests. I enjoyed it a lot because of the vibrant atmosphere, cultural rituals, delicious food, and the chance to meet many relatives in one place.
2. A graduation ceremony:
I went to my best friend’s university graduation last summer at the campus auditorium. Hundreds of students, their families, and professors attended. I cheered loudly, took photos, and shared in her joy. I found it meaningful because it celebrated years of hard work and gave me a glimpse of academic pride and accomplishment.
3. A milestone birthday celebration:
I attended my cousin’s 18th birthday party at a rooftop restaurant. School friends, extended family, and some of his teachers were invited. We played games, danced, and enjoyed a cake-cutting ceremony. It was memorable because it felt more like a festive reunion than just a birthday.
4. A cultural festival event:
I once joined a local cultural festival that took place in the town square. Many community members, tourists, and performers were there. I watched folk dances, tasted traditional foods, and joined in singing sessions. I loved it because it gave me a sense of belonging and pride in local traditions.
5. A farewell party:
I attended a farewell party for one of my teachers who was retiring. The event was held in the school hall with teachers, students, and alumni. I contributed by giving a short speech and presenting flowers. I enjoyed it because it was emotional and filled with respect and gratitude.
6. A religious celebration:
I joined a religious holiday celebration at a community centre. Families, neighbours, and friends all came dressed in traditional attire. I participated in prayers, enjoyed a communal meal, and exchanged greetings. I liked it because it was spiritually uplifting and strengthened community bonds.
7. A charity fundraising gala:
I attended a fundraising dinner organised for underprivileged children. Businesspeople, volunteers, and media representatives were present. I helped by assisting with ticket sales and later enjoyed the musical performances. I felt proud because the event raised funds for a meaningful cause.
8. A school reunion:
I joined a school reunion held in a hotel ballroom where many of my old classmates and teachers attended. We reconnected, shared old memories, and played fun quiz games. I enjoyed it because it brought back a sense of nostalgia and reminded me of my carefree school days.
9. A community sports event:
I went to a local football final in a stadium packed with residents and supporters. My friends, neighbours, and classmates were also there. I cheered for my team and joined the celebrations when they won. I loved it because the collective energy and unity were overwhelming.
10. A music concert:
I attended an outdoor concert by a famous band in the city park. Thousands of fans, families, and friends filled the venue. I sang along, waved glow sticks, and danced with the crowd. It was one of the most enjoyable experiences because of the live music and electric atmosphere.
Vocabulary for this Candidate task card/ Cue card topic:
When describing an important occasion or event, using specific vocabulary can effectively convey when and where it took place, who attended, what you did, and how much you enjoyed it. Thoughtful word choices will help you articulate the atmosphere, the sense of joy, and the special moments, making your response both descriptive and personal. Here are some relevant words and phrases:
Occasion: – A particular event or the time at which it takes place.
Example: It was a very special occasion, and everyone was dressed in their best clothes.
Celebration: – The action of celebrating something.
Example: The celebration of my cousin's wedding was a truly joyful event.
Gathering: – An assembly or meeting, especially a social or festive one.
Example: It was a large family gathering with people from all over the country.
Festivity: – A celebration or festival; an activity that is connected with a celebration.
Example: The whole day was filled with music and general festivity.
Milestone: – An important stage or event in the development of something.
Example: The wedding was a significant milestone in my friend's life.
Memorable: – Worth remembering or easily remembered, especially because of being special or unusual.
Example: It was one of the most memorable events I have ever attended.
Joyful: – Feeling, expressing, or causing great pleasure and happiness.
Example: The atmosphere was so joyful and full of laughter.
Grand: – Magnificent and imposing in appearance, size, or style.
Example: The wedding hall was decorated in a grand style, which made it feel spectacular.
Atmosphere: – The pervading tone or mood of a place, situation, or work of art.
Example: The atmosphere of the party was very relaxed and welcoming.
Festive: – Relating to a feast or festival, especially cheerful.
Example: The music and lights created a wonderfully festive mood.
Toast: – A call to a gathering to raise glasses and drink together in honour of a person or thing.
Example: The best man gave a funny toast that made everyone laugh.
Mingle: – To mix with or move among a group of people, especially at a party.
Example: I enjoyed mingling with the guests and meeting new people.
Socialise: – To participate in a social gathering or meet with people.
Example: It was a great opportunity to socialise with my relatives whom I hadn't seen in a long time.
Unforgettable: – Impossible to forget; very memorable.
Example: The entire evening was an unforgettable experience.
Delightful: – Causing great pleasure; charming.
Example: The performances at the event were truly delightful.
Heartwarming: – Causing feelings of happiness, pleasure, and emotional warmth.
Example: The whole celebration was a heartwarming tribute to the couple.
If you prepare for the topic "Describe an important occasion or event (such as a wedding or a celebration) you have attended", you should be able to talk about the following topics as well:
1) Describe a wedding/marriage ceremony you have attended.
2) Describe a family celebration you once attended.
3) Describe a party that you enjoyed.
4) Describe a memorable event in your life.
5) Describe a celebration when a number of guests came to your place.
6) Describe an important or memorable day in your life.
7) Describe a happy family event from your childhood that you remember well.
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