Cue Cards Samples with band 8 answers
Something you did that was new or exciting - Cue Card # 478
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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 something you did that was new or exciting.
You should say:
- what you did
- where and when you did this
- who you shared the activity with
and explain why this activity was new or exciting for you.
[You will have to talk about the topic for one to two minutes. You have one minute to think about what you're going to say. You can make some notes to help you if you wish.]
Model Answer 1:
I like to try new things every now and then in order to make my life a bit more interesting. But, I never really thought that horse riding would be one of them, and I still can’t believe that I actually did it! Anyway, here is how my horse riding story unfolded.
It was about 3 years ago when I went to visit a good friend of mine in the countryside. It was my first visit to my friend’s place, so I didn’t really know what I was exactly supposed to expect there. Of course, as soon as I arrived there, about 300 kilometres away from my hometown, I was really impressed with the beautiful nature of the countryside. Equally impressive was the fact that some farmers there actually were raising some beautiful-looking horses which I never really thought those farmers could have ever afforded.
So, when I asked my friend about how those farmers ended up having such beautiful-looking horses, he told me that a group of wealthy farmers had been living in that countryside for generations who just loved to ride horses. In fact, I saw someone riding a horse one morning. After seeing this, I also became interested in horse riding. So, I asked my friend if he also knew how to do it. As soon as he said “yes”, I told him to borrow a horse from one of his farmer neighbours and teach me horse riding. However, my friend told me that I couldn’t possibly learn it just like that, but I could ride a horse with him, sitting as a passenger behind him. So, I just obliged and rode the horse for the next 15 minutes with my friend.
Anyway, this activity was completely new for me, I never had a chance to touch a horse before, let alone ride one! Besides, the fact that we are still using the term “horsepower” to describe the power of a 'car engine' or 'machine' made me really wonder how “elite” of an animal it really is.
Model Answer 2:
Introduction:
Doing something new or exciting can be an incredible experience, and it is something that we all should strive to do from time to time, at least this is what I believe. Here, I would like to talk about a recent activity that I did which was both new and exciting for me.
What you did:
Recently, I went bungee jumping for the first time in my life. It was something that I had always wanted to do, but I never had the chance until now.
Where and when you did this:
I did this activity at a bungee jumping centre that was located on the outskirts of the city. I remember it was a beautiful sunny day, and the location was surrounded by lush greenery. I went there on a weekend, and the place was bustling with people who had come to try their hand at bungee jumping.
Who you shared the activity with:
I went to the bungee jumping centre with a group of friends who had planned this activity as part of our weekend getaway. We were all excited and a bit nervous, but we decided to take the plunge and go for it.
And explain why this activity was new or exciting for you:
Bungee jumping was an activity that I had always been curious about, but I never had the courage to try it until that very day. The feeling of jumping off a platform and free-falling in the air was both terrifying and exhilarating. The adrenaline rush that I felt during the fall was unmatched, and it was an experience that I would never forget. It was a new and exciting experience for me also because it pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me conquer my fear of heights. I must confess, it was an incredible adventure, and I would love to do it again.
Sample Answer 3:
I love trying new things. I’m not particularly brave, but I hate missing out on adventures, and I am curious about the world. On balance, even if something is uncomfortable, or positively frightening, I’d much prefer to ‘give it a go’ and face the consequences than walk away from the opportunity and wonder what might have been.
Last year I went on holiday to a fitness boot camp. It was in Northumberland, right by the sea. This is a wild and beautiful location in the north of England. The week involved lots of different activities, abseiling; hill walking; river kayaking; climbing (I was rubbish at that); bodyboarding; orienteering even learning how to build wild shelters out of scraps of wood. Lots of those activities were new and/or exciting, but there was one thing in particular we did that gave me a massive adrenalin high! Coasteering! Now I’d never even heard of this before, so I think you might also need me to explain a bit more about what exactly it is!
Essentially coasteering is a cross between orienteering and coastal (ocean) swimming. The activity involves exploring a rocky coastline from the sea, by climbing, jumping, and swimming along its edge. It is quite strenuous, and you have to be brave as you are moving along the coast in an inter-tidal area with ocean currents, tides and hidden rocks to contend with. It isn’t just clambering over rock pools, nor is it swimming as such it is something in between. With the cold rough waters of the North Sea, it is an activity it would be far too dangerous to do on your own. You need to be with a group and a leader who knows the area and what is safe and what is not. So the activity was coasteering, the location was Northumberland, and the timing was August 2019 I think.
In terms of whom I shared this with, well, I went out with a group of about 6 other fellow holiday-makers and our very experienced, patient and lovely guide Bruce. We all wore full wetsuits and old trainers to protect our feet as well as life jackets (buoyancy aids) and helmets. Even so, I was very apprehensive as we walked over the slippery seaweed-covered rocks towards the crashing waves.
So coasteering was new and exciting because it was something I’d never even heard of before, let alone experienced. I had no idea at all what to expect. It was exciting because it moves you out of your comfort zone. Your heart is racing and it is a physical as well as a mental challenge to keep on going. However, it was also incredibly enjoyable and rewarding. Because we were a small group we all encouraged one another and pulled together, it was a great way to make new friends. I’m not sure it would suit everyone as a team-building activity in the workplace but I guarantee it would be effective!
[ Written by - Lucy Marris (2016): Careers Adviser (UK), TEFL teacher (Vietnam)]
Idea generation for this Candidate task card / Cue card topic:
Talking about something new or exciting that you've done gives you the chance to describe a personal challenge, a unique experience, or a fun memory. Below are a few sample ideas that you can adapt to craft your own response to this cue card topic:
1. Skydiving adventure in Dubai:
I went skydiving for the first time in Dubai during a holiday with my friends last year. Jumping out of a plane and free-falling above the Palm Jumeirah was exhilarating and nerve-wracking. I did it with my best friend, and we both overcame our fear of heights. It was new because I had never tried an extreme sport before, and it pushed me out of my comfort zone.
2. Cooking an Italian meal from scratch:
I tried cooking a full Italian meal—lasagna, garlic bread, and tiramisu—for my family at home during the lockdown. I had never cooked more than simple meals before, so this was a big step for me. I followed an online cooking class and shared the meal with my parents and siblings. It felt exciting because it turned out delicious, and I felt proud of learning something new.
3. Hiking a mountain trail in South Korea:
During my exchange semester in South Korea, I hiked Bukhansan Mountain with a few classmates. I had never done mountain hiking before, and reaching the top gave me a sense of achievement. The view from the summit was breathtaking, and it was exciting because I pushed myself physically and bonded with new friends.
4. Performing in a public speaking competition:
I participated in a public speaking competition at my college last semester. Although I was very nervous, I practised for weeks and presented a speech on climate change. It was new because I had never spoken in front of a large audience before. It turned out to be an empowering experience, and I received good feedback from the judges.
5. Scuba diving in Thailand:
On a vacation to Phuket, I tried scuba diving with an instructor for the first time. I was amazed by the underwater world and swam among coral reefs and colourful fish. My cousin joined me on the dive, and we talked about it for days afterwards. It was exciting because it felt like entering a completely different world.
6. Taking part in a flash mob:
I joined a flash mob organised by a dance group at our local mall. I had never danced in public before, but after several rehearsals with the group, I gained confidence. We surprised shoppers with our performance, and the crowd loved it. It was new, thrilling, and gave me a boost of self-confidence.
7. Learning to ride a motorbike:
I learned to ride a motorbike last summer when I visited my uncle in the countryside. He taught me the basics, and I practised on quiet village roads. It was a big achievement for me because I had always been afraid of balancing two-wheelers. Now I enjoy short rides whenever I visit.
8. Volunteering at an animal shelter:
For the first time, I volunteered at an animal shelter in my city last winter. I cleaned kennels, fed the dogs and cats, and helped with adoption events. I did it with a group of school friends. It was exciting because I love animals, and it felt good to contribute to a meaningful cause.
9. Camping trip to the Grand Canyon:
I went camping with three friends at Mather Campground in the Grand Canyon, Arizona. We planned it after a stressful semester at college and wanted to take a break from technology and city life. I drove us there, and we spent two nights under the stars, grilling fish and telling stories. I still remember how peaceful the surroundings were, and I felt completely recharged after the experience.
10. Family camping by the lakeside:
My family and I camped near Lake Tahoe during the summer holidays. I learned how to pitch a tent for the first time and helped prepare food on a portable stove. We played board games at night and stargazed while wrapped in sleeping bags. It was an ideal bonding time, and the natural beauty of the lake made it unforgettable.
More Ideas:
Topic: Describe something you did that was new or exciting.
1. Learning to ride a bicycle in Vietnam:
Learning to ride a bicycle was one of the most memorable adventures of my life. A few months ago, while staying with my cousins in Vietnam, I finally decided to give it a try. Until then, I had always assumed cycling wasn’t for me—especially as a girl who never got the chance to learn. But my cousins patiently supported me, and after a few shaky starts and lots of laughter, I managed to do it! It felt incredibly empowering and exciting to master something I once believed I couldn't do.
2. Spending a night away from home for the first time:
Spending a night outside my home was a brand-new experience that I’ll never forget. It happened during a rooftop party at a friend’s house, and I was surrounded by close friends. We had planned everything—from food to music—and even set up a little barbeque. It was my first time staying out overnight, and it gave me a strong sense of independence. The combination of great food, good company, and the starry sky made it a genuinely exciting memory for me.
3. Taking a spontaneous long drive:
One of the most thrilling things I’ve done recently was a spontaneous long drive from Ohio to Dallas. It was a packed weekday, traffic was intense, and the odds of making it in time were slim—but that’s what made it all the more exciting. I was joined by my close friends Robert and Sam, and although we weren’t sure if we’d complete the journey in one day, we decided to go for it. It was the first time the three of us had gone on a long road trip together, and it turned into a fun-filled, unforgettable adventure.
4. Joining a gym to improve my fitness:
I’ve always been fascinated by the strength and fitness of professional wrestlers, so I decided to join a local gym in the middle of last year. I went with a friend who was already a regular member, and I honestly didn’t expect to enjoy it as much as I did. The workouts were challenging yet fun, and gradually I started to notice improvements in my health and energy levels. The excitement of trying something new—and succeeding at it—made it a truly rewarding experience.
5. Experiencing a Thai full-body massage:
During my last vacation to Thailand last year, I decided to try something new and booked a full-body Thai massage. I had always been curious about it but had never worked up the courage to try. The massage turned out to be one of the most relaxing and rejuvenating experiences I’ve ever had. The way they worked on my pressure points was simply amazing, and I walked out feeling like a new person. It was a strange but wonderful experience that I’m glad I didn’t miss.
6. Adopting a pet cat despite my mother’s disapproval:
Although my mother isn’t a fan of pets, I decided to adopt a cat from a local pet store in New Delhi. It was a beautiful, playful kitten, and from the moment I brought her home, we shared a unique bond. My mom wasn’t happy at first and often scolded me, but over time she warmed up to the cat too. Taking care of the kitten taught me a lot about responsibility and affection. It was definitely one of the most heartwarming and exciting things I’ve ever done.
Sample Answer 4:
Sometimes, the most vivid memories are those born under a sky full of stars, far away from the glow of city lights. One such memory for me is a camping trip I took with three of my closest college friends to Mather Campground in the Grand Canyon, Arizona - a trip that was as refreshing as it was unforgettable.
It was mid-October, a time when college deadlines started to pile up and life felt like a repeating loop of lectures, assignments, and late-night study sessions. I remember sitting in the campus café one rainy afternoon, feeling drained, when I casually suggested the idea of a weekend camping escape. My friends George, Robert, and David immediately lit up. Within days, the plan turned real - we gathered sleeping bags, stocked up on essentials, and left behind our phones, laptops, and the digital world.
Convincing our parents, though, wasn’t so easy. They weren’t thrilled about four college kids disappearing into the wilderness without any contact. But with the help of our friendly college lecturer Mr. Johnson—who kindly vouched for our responsibility—they gave in. And so, one Friday morning, we loaded up my Mazda 6 and hit the road.
The drive itself was scenic, but nothing could have prepared us for the sheer beauty of the Grand Canyon. When we arrived at Mather Campground, the air was crisp, the pine trees swayed gently, and the distant canyon walls shimmered under the afternoon sun. We set up our tents and built a small fire, and as the sky darkened, the real magic began.
We grilled trout we had caught earlier from a nearby stream, told stories, and laughed until our sides hurt. There was only a single radio playing in the background—our only connection to the outside world. The rest belonged to nature: the rustle of leaves, the crackle of firewood, and the vast, star-filled sky that made us feel like we were in another universe.
What made the trip truly special wasn’t just the location—it was the simplicity. For once, we weren’t thinking about exams or emails. We were just four friends in the wild, finding joy in silence, starlight, and smoky grilled fish. It reminded me how rare and precious moments of true peace can be. And that’s why this camping trip remains one of the most cherished memories of my life.
Part 3 – Two-way discussion:
Doing new things:
Q. Why do you think some people like doing new things?
Q. What problems can people have when they try new activities for the first time?
Q. Do you think it’s best to do new things on your own or with other people? Why?
Learning new things:
Q. What kinds of things do children learn to do when they are very young? How important are these things?
Q. Do you think children and adults learn to do new things in the same way? How is their learning style different?
Q. Some people say that it is more important to be able to learn new things now than it was in the past. Do you agree or disagree with that? Why?
The answer to those Part 3 Questions can be found in - Speaking Sample 98 - Part 3
Vocabulary for this Candidate Task Card / Cue Card topic:
Talking about a new or exciting activity gives you a chance to use dynamic and expressive vocabulary. Whether it's an adventure, a personal achievement, or a social experience, you should aim to describe the feelings, actions, and context clearly. Below is a list of words and expressions that can help you communicate effectively and naturally when describing something fresh and thrilling that you did.
Spontaneous – Done suddenly without planning.
Memorable – Worth remembering or easily remembered, especially because of being special or unusual.
Exhilarating – Making you feel very excited and happy.
Uncharted territory – An experience or situation that is new or unfamiliar.
Out of my comfort zone – Doing something that feels unfamiliar or challenging.
Take the plunge – To do something you've been hesitant about for a while.
Adrenaline rush – A feeling of excitement and energy caused by doing something thrilling.
Eye-opening – Something that shows you something you didn’t know before and changes your perspective.
First-hand experience – Experience gained by doing something yourself.
Push my limits – To do more than you thought you could do.
Leap of faith – An act of believing in or attempting something risky or new.
Life-changing – Something that changes your life significantly.
Unforgettable – So good or enjoyable that it cannot be forgotten.
Heart-pounding – Very exciting or frightening.
Bucket list – A list of things you want to do before you die.
Thrilling adventure – An exciting or daring experience.
Venture into – To do something new, usually with some risk.
Break the routine – To do something different from your usual habits or schedule.
If you prepare for the topic "Describe a place you visited that has beautiful views", you should be able to talk about the following topics as well:
1) Describe an exciting experience in your life.
2) Describe something you did for the first time and enjoyed.
3) Describe a time when you were excited.
4) Describe an unusual or interesting thing you did recently.
5) Describe an outdoor activity that you did for the first time.
6) Describe something you did that made you feel proud.
7) Describe a very difficult thing you succeeded in doing as part of your work or studies.
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