Cue Cards Samples with band 8 answers
Describe a writer you would like to meet - Cue Card # 468
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IELTS Speaking Part 2: Individual Long Run - 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.]
IELTS Speaking Part 2: IELTS Cue Card/ Candidate Task Card.
Describe a writer you would like to meet.
You should say:
- who the writer is
- what you already know about this writer
- what you would like to find out about him/her
and explain why you would like to meet this writer.
[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.]
[Examiner: All right? Remember you have one to two minutes for this, so don't worry if I stop you. I'll tell you when the time is up. Can you start speaking now, please?]
Model Answer 1: [Ernest Hemingway]
In my mind, I think that the 20th century has produced more prolific and accomplished writers, with the finest minds, than at any other time in human history. Today, I would like to talk about one such writer whom I would certainly like to meet without even wasting a second. The name of this world-famous writer is Ernest Hemingway. Though he died many years ago, I would still want to travel back in time and meet this great writer.
I came to learn about this great writer for the first time when we all had to read “The Old Man and the Sea” in our high school. Of course, back then, I had no clue whatsoever about what actually made a great writer. But, as I grew older and started to read more and more books, I eventually understood the tricks of being a great writer.
Anyway, Ernest Hemingway was an American journalist, novelist, and short-story writer. Born in the year 1939, this writer didn’t really gain much fame during his lifetime, but he certainly had his fair share of admiration from the later generations because of his adventurous lifestyle (took part in the First World War and also was a journalist during the second world war) and great public image. Having a strong influence on 20th-century fiction, Ernest Hemingway’s many works are considered to be classics in American literature today. However, his greatest success came when he got the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1954 for his mastery of the art of narrative and his influence on contemporary style.
Anyway, I would like to meet Ernest Hemingway, even if it means I will need to travel back in time, because there is still so much to know about him, such as what really motivated him to be a writer even though he had the opportunity to pursue another career. I would also like to know how it really felt to witness the two most devastating wars in human history. I would like to meet him also because it would allow me to learn the tricks of writing my experience, just as he did, in a minimal fashion. After all, I also want to become a writer someday.
Sample Answer 2: [J.K. Rowling]
Joanna Rowling - who is more popularly known as J.K. Rowling - is the writer I would love to meet and spend some time with. She is a British Novelist and the creator of the world-famous Harry Potter Series.
She was born on 31st July 1965 in Yale, England. Besides writing, she is also a screenwriter, film producer and researcher. She was employed as a researcher for Amnesty International when she conceived the idea for Harry Potter while on a delay for a train in 1990. Her fantasy series books "Harry Potter" gained worldwide attention and sold over four hundred million copies. She also worked as a producer of the movie series Harry Potter. Besides writing for children, she also wrote 4 books for adult readers. Time magazine named her a runner-up for the "Person of the Year" in 2007, and she is now the 197th richest person in the UK whose fortune is worth around 600 million Pounds. Currently, she is the mother of 3 children and married to Neil Murray.
What would I like to find out about her? Interesting question! But honestly speaking, I would like to know about her daily life and interests -what she does, how she speaks with her fans, whether she cooks or not, what she does with her children and husband, what type of dresses she wears, what type of house she lives in and so on and on. I would also like to discuss her writing career, what's her plan is for writing more fantasy books for children and what motivates her to write. Finally, I would like to know the types of books she likes to read and what special qualities an aspiring writer should have.
She is my childhood hero and I have always wanted to meet her. Her books are quite special to me and helped me develop my imagination. Sometimes her books inspired me to a great extent. The way she has influenced millions of children all around the world is quite unmatched. I would like to spend some time with her and know more about his living legend.
Model Answer 3: [Paulo Coelho]
Introduction:
I am an avid reader, and books have always been a source of inspiration for me. One of the writers who has left a profound impact on me is Paulo Coelho. I would like to meet him in person to express my admiration and learn more about him. I am so happy to be able to talk about what I would do if I ever get the chance to meet this great writer whose writing has inspired me a lot.
Who the writer is:
Paulo Coelho is a Brazilian author who has written several famous novels, including "The Alchemist," "Brida," and "Veronika Decides to Die." He is known for his philosophical and spiritual approach to writing, and his books have been translated into numerous languages worldwide.
What you already know about this writer:
I have read several of Paulo Coelho's books, and I am always impressed with the depth of his writing. His books often explore themes such as self-discovery, personal growth, and spirituality, which are relevant to people of all ages and backgrounds. Coelho has also had an interesting life, having worked as a songwriter and journalist before becoming a full-time author.
What you would like to find out about him:
I would like to find out more about his writing process, the inspirations behind his books, and his personal philosophy on life. It would be fascinating to hear directly from him how he develops his characters and storylines, and how he approaches the themes he writes about. Additionally, I would like to know more about how his personal experiences have shaped his writing and his outlook on life.
And explain why you would like to meet this writer:
Paulo Coelho has had a profound impact on my life through his writing. His books have helped me to see the world in a different way, and have inspired me to pursue my dreams and live my life to the fullest. Meeting him in person would be a dream come true, and I would cherish the opportunity to learn more from him and express my gratitude for the impact he has had on my life.
Model Answer 4: [Chetan Bhagat]
Introduction:
I have always been an avid reader, and one writer that I would love to meet is Chetan Bhagat. He is a renowned author, columnist, and speaker, and has written several best-selling books that have been adapted into movies. Here, I'll describe why I would like to meet Chetan Bhagat.
Who the writer is:
Chetan Bhagat is an Indian author, columnist, and speaker. He is a well-known figure in India's literary world and has written several popular books that have been widely read across the country. Some of his notable books include Five Point Someone, One Night @ the Call Center, 2 States, and Half Girlfriend. In addition to writing books, he is also a popular columnist and has written for several leading newspapers in India.
What you already know about this writer:
I have read many of Chetan Bhagat's books, and I am familiar with his writing style and the themes he explores in his books. I know that he is a great storyteller and has the ability to connect with readers through his writing. I also know that he is a graduate of the Indian Institute of Technology, which is one of India's premier engineering institutes.
What you would like to find out about him/her:
If I ever got the chance to meet Chetan Bhagat, I would love to find out more about his writing process and where he gets his inspiration from. I would also like to know more about his life and what motivates him to write. Additionally, I would be interested in hearing about any upcoming books or projects that he has in the works.
And explain why you would like to meet Chetan Bhagat:
I would like to meet Chetan Bhagat because he is a talented writer who has made a significant impact on India's literary scene. His books have inspired and entertained millions of readers across the country, and I would love to hear firsthand about his experiences as a writer. I believe that meeting Chetan Bhagat would be an incredible opportunity to gain insights into the world of writing and storytelling, and I would cherish the opportunity to learn from him.
Model Answer 5: [Nguyen Nhat Anh]
I'm going to talk about Nguyen Nhat Anh, a Vietnamese writer I'd love to meet someday. He is one of the most popular contemporary writers in Vietnam and has a massive following among Vietnamese young adults. I am so glad to be able to explain why I would like to meet this great writer whose work I admire a lot.
His writing style is unique, witty, and relatable, and I admire his ability to capture the essence of everyday life.
Nguyen Nhat Anh was born in 1955 in Hue, Vietnam. He started his career as a teacher but eventually became a full-time writer. He has written many novels, short stories, and essays and has won numerous literary awards in Vietnam. His books are known for their humour, simplicity, and their ability to resonate with young readers.
I have read several of Nguyen Nhat Anh's books, including "Cho Toi Xin Mot Ve Di Tuoi Tho" (Give Me a Ticket to Childhood) and "Toi La Beto" (I Am Beto). I know that he writes about the daily struggles of young Vietnamese people and their search for meaning in life. His stories often involve themes of love, friendship, and family relationships.
If I ever had the chance to meet Nguyen Nhat Anh, I would love to find out more about his writing process. I'd like to know how he comes up with his ideas, how he develops his characters, and what his sources of inspiration are. I'd also like to know how he manages to connect with his readers so well and how he has been able to make such a significant impact on the literary scene in Vietnam.
I would like to meet Nguyen Nhat Anh because he has been such an influential figure in my life. His stories have taught me valuable life lessons, and I have found solace in his books during difficult times. I believe that meeting him would be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn from a master storyteller and to gain insights into the craft of writing.
Sample Answer 6: [Stephen King]
Writing is a great profession, and I believe writers come with a special type of virtue. So, meeting the writers is interesting, and I would like to meet Stephen King for his extraordinary story-developing capability, especially horror and mysterious stories.
Stephen King is skilled in composing stories in genres like horror, mystery, science fiction, supernatural fiction and others. Some of his books are bestsellers while some of the books have been adapted for films as well. So far, he has created around 54 books under his authorship and Shawshank Redemption is one of the greatest movies of all time which was adapted from one of his books of a similar name.
To me, Stephen King is one of the greatest writers of all time. He is famous for his distinctive style of narration and the plots are undoubtedly extraordinary. He has achieved a wide number of awards and his works have been nominated for adaptations. It is said that the death of one of his dearest friends, in his childhood, inspired him to create his darker works. His interest in writing horror might have appeared from the reading of horror comics in his early days.
As far as I realise, Stephen King had a spiky childhood. He was deprived of fatherly affection and love. A substantial portion of his life underwent hardship, and struggle and survival was challenging. His academic career also experienced some shocks. But he overcame all the obstacles to his success. Now he is one of the most influential writers. I would like to dig deeper into his life. In fact, it is impossible for everyone to overcome the adversities of life. The majority of them get ruined while the remaining are abolished from the earth. But there are some exceptional people who have overcome the barriers to success. So, I would like to find out and know about the secrets that have kept him so energetic and inspired.
There are people who are extraordinary in every aspect. I sense Stephen King is one of them and even a five-minute meeting with him may teach me a large number of things. In fact, the things I will learn from him are unavailable in books, seminars or in other meetings. These are his real-life experiences and they are invaluable. So, if I have a chance to meet him, I would come to know about the undisclosed issues of life. Moreover, it is a dream for me to meet my dearest writer. If I can meet him, I could come to a conclusion on how to deal with the adversities of life.
Idea generation for this Candidate task card/ Cue card topic.
Topic: Describe a writer you would like to meet.
More Ideas to talk about:
Meeting a writer you admire can be an inspiring and unforgettable experience. Writers often have unique perspectives on life, creativity, and the writing process. Here are some ideas to help you describe a writer you would like to meet:
1. Haruki Murakami:
One writer I would love to meet is Haruki Murakami, a Japanese novelist known for his surreal and thought-provoking books. His works, such as "Norwegian Wood" and "Kafka on the Shore," blend reality with fantasy in a way that is both captivating and introspective. I know that Murakami is a very private person, and his books often explore themes of loneliness, existentialism, and human connection. I would love to learn more about his creative process and what inspires his unique storytelling. Meeting him would be a chance to understand the mind behind some of the most intriguing modern literature.
2. Isabel Allende:
Isabel Allende is a Chilean-American author whose works explore themes of history, culture, and the experiences of women. She is best known for books like "The House of the Spirits" and "Of Love and Shadows." Allende’s writing is deeply influenced by her own experiences and the political turmoil in Chile. I admire her for her ability to blend historical events with magical realism, creating compelling narratives that resonate with readers. I would love to ask her about how she balances historical accuracy with fiction and what drives her passion for writing stories that highlight marginalised voices.
3. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie:
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is a Nigerian writer whose novels have received widespread critical acclaim. Her books, such as "Americanah" and "Half of a Yellow Sun," focus on issues of identity, race, and the immigrant experience. I know that Adichie is an outspoken advocate for gender equality and social justice, and her TED talk "We Should All Be Feminists" has inspired many. I would love to meet her to discuss her views on the role of literature in social change, her experiences as a writer, and how she approaches creating strong, complex characters. I think meeting her would provide valuable insights into the intersection of literature and activism.
4. Maya Angelou:
Maya Angelou, the late American poet and author, is someone I greatly admire. Known for her memoir "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings," Angelou's writing is powerful, poetic, and often reflects on themes of overcoming adversity, race, and the strength of women. I have always been inspired by her ability to turn pain and suffering into beautiful, empowering narratives. I would have loved to meet her to learn more about how she found her voice as a writer and how she navigated the challenges of being a Black woman in America during her time. Her words have had a profound impact on me, and meeting her would have been a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn from her wisdom and grace.
5. Gabriel García Márquez:
Gabriel García Márquez, a Colombian novelist and Nobel laureate, is famous for his works of magical realism, particularly "One Hundred Years of Solitude" and "Love in the Time of Cholera." His writing is characterised by vivid descriptions, rich symbolism, and the blending of reality with the fantastical. I know that García Márquez was deeply influenced by his Latin American heritage and political events in the region. I would love to meet him to understand more about his unique narrative style, how he develops his intricate plots, and the role of political themes in his work. I would also love to hear his perspective on the power of storytelling in shaping culture and history.
6. R.K. Narayan:
R.K. Narayan, an Indian writer who is famous for his stories set in the fictional town of Malgudi, is another author I would like to meet. His works, such as "The Guide" and "Swami and Friends," beautifully capture the essence of Indian society, culture, and human relationships. I know that Narayan was known for his simple yet profound writing style, often focusing on the ordinary lives of his characters. I would love to meet him to discuss his writing process, his ability to weave humour into serious themes, and his thoughts on the role of literature in reflecting society.
7. Jhumpa Lahiri:
Jhumpa Lahiri is an Indian-American author whose works explore the immigrant experience, identity, and the complexities of belonging. Her book "Interpreter of Maladies" won the Pulitzer Prize, and her writing has been praised for its emotional depth and vivid character portrayals. I admire how she captures the struggles of balancing two cultures and the nuances of identity. I would like to meet her to discuss how she approaches writing about the immigrant experience and what inspired her to focus on such deeply personal and universal themes. Her ability to capture the nuances of identity in a globalised world is something I would love to learn more about.
8. Neil Gaiman:
Neil Gaiman is a British author known for his works of fantasy and science fiction, including "American Gods," "Coraline," and "The Sandman" graphic novel series. His writing often blends mythology, folklore, and contemporary settings, creating unique and captivating stories. I admire his ability to create complex worlds and characters, and his mastery of blending genres. I would love to meet him to ask about his creative process, how he comes up with his fantastical ideas, and what advice he has for aspiring writers. His insights into world-building and character development would be invaluable for any writer.
9. Oscar Wilde:
One writer I would love to meet is Oscar Wilde, the famous Irish playwright and author known for his wit, charm, and biting social commentary. His works, such as "The Picture of Dorian Gray" and "The Importance of Being Earnest," showcase his sharp humour and critique of society. Wilde’s unique perspective on morality, love, and societal norms has always intrigued me. I would like to meet him to understand more about his satirical approach to literature, how he managed to challenge Victorian ideals, and how his personal experiences influenced his works. I think meeting him would provide invaluable insights into both the man and his creative genius.
10. Virginia Woolf:
Virginia Woolf, one of the most influential modernist writers, is someone I would love to meet. Her novels, like "Mrs. Dalloway" and "To the Lighthouse," are known for their experimental narrative style and deep psychological exploration. I know Woolf’s writing often delves into themes of mental health, feminism, and the role of women in society. I would love to meet her to discuss her writing process, especially how she used stream-of-consciousness to convey the inner workings of her characters’ minds, and to learn more about her revolutionary thoughts on women’s rights and artistic freedom.
11. Malcolm Gladwell:
Another writer I would like to meet is Malcolm Gladwell, known for his non-fiction books like "Outliers" and "The Tipping Point." His exploration of social phenomena and human behaviour is thought-provoking and often challenges conventional wisdom. I admire how he uses storytelling to explain complex psychological and sociological concepts in a relatable way. I would love to meet him to discuss how he researches his topics, his approach to writing for a broad audience, and how he crafts his compelling narratives that make deep subjects accessible to everyone.
12. Agatha Christie:
Agatha Christie, the queen of mystery, is a writer I have always admired. Known for her iconic detective novels such as "Murder on the Orient Express" and "The Murder of Roger Ackroyd," Christie’s ability to craft intricate plots and suspenseful narratives is unparalleled. I know she was a master of creating complex characters and settings, and her stories have entertained millions around the world. I would love to meet her to understand how she developed her famous characters, Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple, and to learn about her inspiration behind creating such intriguing mysteries that continue to captivate readers to this day.
Part 3: Detailed Discussion
Discussion topics: "Reading and children" & "Reading for different purposes".
Reading and children:
Q. What kinds of book are most popular with children in your country? Why do you think that is?
Q. Why do you think some children do not read books very often?
Q. How do you think children can be encouraged to read more?
Reading for different purposes:
Q. Are there any occasions when reading at speed is a useful skill to have? What are they?
Q. Are there any jobs where people need to read a lot? What are they?
Q. Do you think that reading novels is more interesting than reading factual books? Why is that?
Find the answer to these Part 3 questions - Speaking Sample 103- Part 3 - Detailed Discussion
Vocabulary for this Candidate task card / Cue card topic:
Describing a writer you would like to meet allows you to talk about literature, creativity, influence, and personal admiration. The vocabulary below will help you express thoughts about a writer’s work, their impact, and your interest in their ideas or personality. These moderately advanced terms and phrases will boost your fluency and clarity in your response:
Renowned author – A writer who is widely known and respected.
Literary figure – A person who is well-known in the field of literature.
Critically acclaimed – Highly praised by critics.
Best-selling novelist – An author whose books sell in large numbers.
Creative genius – A person with exceptional creative talent.
Influential thinker – Someone whose ideas have had a significant impact.
Thought-provoking – Stimulating deep reflection or discussion.
Narrative style – The way a story is told by the writer.
Autobiographical elements – Aspects of the writer’s own life that appear in their work.
Timeless themes – Ideas in writing that remain relevant across generations.
Philosophical insight – Deep understanding or reflection on life and existence.
Published works – Books or writings that have been officially released.
Inspiring personality – A person whose character or achievements motivate others.
Genre-defining – A writer who sets the standard for a literary category.
Writing legacy – The lasting impact a writer leaves through their work.
If you prepare for the topic "Describe a writer you would like to meet", you should be able to talk about the following topics as well:
1) Describe your favourite writer.
2) Describe a writer whose book has influenced you a lot.
3) Describe a person in the news you would like to meet.
4) Describe a famous person you would like to meet if you get a chance.
5) Describe a person from your country who has won a prize.
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