Cue Cards Samples with band 8 answers

Describe a quiet place where you like to go sometimes - Cue Card # 533

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 a quiet place where you like to go sometimes.

You should say:

  • where it is
  • when you usually go there
  • what you did when you went there last time

and explain why you like to go to this quiet place.

[Instruction: 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:
Like many others, I also like to have my quiet time once in a while in order to calm my mind down and find some peace. So, thank you for this interesting topic and the opportunity to let me talk about one of my favourite quiet places where I go sometimes.

This quiet place, where I like to go sometimes, is a small valley located away from my home - at least 15 kilometres away, and next to a garden of many different kinds of native plants. Not sure when or how the valley was formed, as no water streams could be found anywhere near it, but I have always believed that there might be some interesting history behind this small valley.

I like to visit this place only during the late morning because this is when I get to enjoy some refreshingly gentle southern wind, offering some calming effects on my otherwise restless mind. 

Anyway, whenever I go to this place, I spend my time there walking across the valley like I did the last time. However, when I went there last time, I spent some time there also reading a book while lying on its ground that had green lush grass.

Anyway, this is a valley that feels like located thousands of miles away from civilisation, when I visit it with an upset or restless mind, because of its quiet surroundings. Of course, one could easily listen to the chirping sounds of the birds from its adjacent native garden, but that sound is nowhere close to as disturbing as the sound of a busy city; rather, quite the opposite. In fact, if anything, that chirping sound of the birds feels very much reassuring to me as it reminds me of many wonderful things in an otherwise tough world. I like to visit this place, not only because it is nice and quiet, but also because I can see the whole sky in its true colours from here.


 

Model Answer 2:
Thank you very much for this interesting topic. It allows me to talk about a sanctuary I often seek out when I need a bit of peace. That would be the public library located in our neighbourhood.

It’s not a particularly grand or modern building; it’s a rather unassuming, older structure tucked away on a side street, a short walk from my apartment. It has a certain old-world charm with its slightly creaky wooden floors and the comforting scent of aged paper.

I usually find myself drawn to the library during the late afternoons on weekdays, after I've finished my work for the day. It's a time when the initial rush of the day has subsided, and the library tends to be less crowded than on weekends. Sometimes, if I have a free morning, I might also pop in for an hour or two.

The last time I went there, which was just a couple of days ago, I was feeling quite overwhelmed with a few deadlines I had to meet. I went there seeking a calm environment where I could focus and also take a mental break. I spent the first hour or so browsing through the literature section. I then settled down in a comfortable armchair by a window with a book I had borrowed a week prior – a collection of short stories by Rabindranath Tagore. I spent about an hour completely engrossed in the narratives, the quiet hum of the library and the soft natural light creating a perfect atmosphere for reading.

I am particularly fond of this public library for several reasons. Firstly, it offers a genuine escape from the chaotic and noisy environment of the city. The moment I step inside, a sense of calm washes over me. The hushed tones, the focused energy of the people around, and the sheer volume of knowledge contained within those walls create a unique and tranquil atmosphere. Secondly, it provides a fantastic resource for learning and exploration, completely free of charge. I have discovered so many interesting books and authors simply by browsing the shelves. It's a place where I can indulge my curiosity without any pressure or obligation.



Sample Answer 3:

Bill Fredrick Park in Orlando is a quiet place, and I often go there to spend some leisure and peaceful time. This park has an area of 180 acres, and the environment is so pleasant. The vastness of the park helps people to submerge into composure and tranquillity. This is a nice candidate task card topic for me, and I will describe this quiet place to you where I really like to go sometimes.

I like to go there to relax and unwind my mind, and I prefer the evening hours because this is the time when it looks most beautiful and seems most serene. After a few days of a busy schedule, I really need some time for myself. A tranquil place like this park inspires me and calms my mind.

Last time I went to the park - which would be a week ago, I guess - I took my music player and a magazine. First, I walked for a while and listened to the music, and then I lay down in the grass and read the magazine. It was a pleasant experience, especially after a week of a hectic schedule. 

I like to go to this place because it is one of the most impressive sites in our area, and I can spend some quiet time there without being distracted by noise and people. It truly seems like a different place from where I live. Moreover, I feel a connection with nature whenever I am there. It is only a 20-minute drive from my house, and to me, it is a hidden gem and a sanctuary to unwind.



Idea generation for this Candidate task card/ Cue card topic:

Quiet places are often our go-to locations when we want to relax, reflect, or escape from the busyness of everyday life. Whether it’s a peaceful park, a serene beach, or a quiet café, these places offer solace and comfort. This topic asks you to describe a quiet place you like to visit, what you do there, and why it’s meaningful to you. Here are a few ideas to help you structure your response:

1. Local park:
One quiet place I like to go to sometimes is a local park near my house. I usually go there during the early mornings or late evenings when it's less crowded. Last time I visited, I took a walk around the park and sat by the lake, reading a book. I enjoy going there because it’s a peaceful escape from the noise of the city. The natural beauty and the calmness of the environment help me clear my mind and feel more centred.

2. A secluded beach:
There’s a quiet, secluded beach I sometimes visit on weekends. I usually go there in the off-season, when fewer tourists are around. The last time I went, I spent hours walking along the shore, listening to the sound of the waves. I like to visit this beach because it’s peaceful and allows me to connect with nature. The serenity of the place helps me relax and recharge.

3. A cosy café:
I enjoy visiting a quiet café in the downtown area. I usually go there in the afternoons when it's less busy. The last time I went, I sat by the window with a cup of coffee and worked on some writing. I love going there because the ambience is calm, and it provides the perfect environment to focus and be productive. The quiet atmosphere and warm environment make it a great place to relax and unwind.

4. A quiet library:
A quiet library near my home is a place I often visit when I need to concentrate or read. I usually go there during weekdays, especially in the morning when there are fewer visitors. The last time I visited, I spent hours reading and browsing through various books. I like going there because it's a tranquil place where I can escape distractions and immerse myself in books.

5. A small garden:
I enjoy visiting a small, peaceful garden near my neighbourhood. I usually go there on weekends or after a long workday to relax. Last time, I sat under a tree and listened to the sounds of birds chirping while enjoying the greenery around me. I love visiting this garden because it offers a break from the busy streets, and the quiet surroundings help me calm down and clear my mind.

6. A mountain viewpoint:
There’s a quiet spot at the top of a nearby mountain that offers breathtaking views. I usually go there when I need a break from the city, either on weekends or holidays. The last time I went, I hiked up early in the morning and watched the sunrise from the viewpoint. I enjoy going there because of the peaceful environment and the sense of accomplishment when I reach the summit. The beauty and solitude of the place help me feel rejuvenated and inspired.

7. A peaceful art gallery:
I like to visit a quiet art gallery on weekends, especially when it’s not crowded. The last time I went, I spent a few hours quietly admiring the art exhibits and reflecting on the pieces that caught my attention. I enjoy going there because it allows me to experience art in a calm and reflective setting. The serene atmosphere helps me disconnect from everyday stress and appreciate the beauty of art.

8. A riverside walk:
There’s a quiet riverside path I like to walk along when I want some solitude. I usually go there early in the morning or during sunset. The last time I visited, I walked along the river, breathing in the fresh air and watching the water flow. I enjoy going there because the sound of the river and the peaceful surroundings help me relax and think clearly. It’s a place where I can escape from the noise and find peace.

9. A quiet forest trail:
I like to go on walks along a quiet forest trail near my house, especially during autumn when the leaves are changing colours. I usually go there on weekends or when I need a peaceful break. Last time I went, I walked in silence, enjoying the fresh forest air and the crunching sound of leaves beneath my feet. I love visiting this trail because the forest offers a serene and calming environment where I can recharge and connect with nature.

10. A tranquil meditation centre:
Occasionally, I visit a local meditation centre when I feel the need to disconnect and focus on my well-being. I usually go there in the evenings after a busy day. The last time I went, I participated in a group meditation session, which helped me feel calm and centred. I enjoy going there because it offers a peaceful, quiet environment that encourages mindfulness and relaxation. The sense of peace I get from meditating in such a space is incredibly rejuvenating.


 

Vocabulary for this Candidate task card/ Cue card topic:

When describing a quiet place you enjoy visiting, using tranquil and reflective vocabulary can effectively convey the atmosphere and your personal experience there. Thoughtful word choices will help you articulate the reasons for its appeal and the activities you engage in, making your response serene and engaging. Here are some relevant words and phrases:

Secluded: – Sheltered and private; not easily seen or reached.
Example: It's a secluded spot, tucked away from the hustle and bustle.

Tranquil ambience: – A calm, peaceful, and quiet atmosphere.
Example: The park offers a tranquil ambience, perfect for reflection.

A sanctuary of peace: – A place of refuge or safety, especially one where you can find calm.
Example: This quiet corner of the library is my sanctuary of peace.

Escape the clamour: – Get away from loud or confused noise.
Example: I go there to escape the clamour of city life.

Find solace: – Seek and find comfort or consolation in a time of distress or sadness.
Example: I often find solace in the quiet solitude of the garden.

Contemplate in silence: – Think deeply or carefully about something in a state of quiet.
Example: It's a place where I can contemplate in silence without distractions.

Absorb the serenity: – Take in and be filled by the calm and peacefulness of the surroundings.
Example: I simply sit and absorb the serenity of the natural environment.

A respite from the chaos: – A short period of rest or relief from disorder.
Example: It provides a much-needed respite from the daily chaos.

A sense of detachment: – A feeling of being separate or removed from something.
Example: I feel a welcome sense of detachment from my worries when I'm there.

A haven of tranquillity: – A place of peace and quiet; a calm retreat.
Example: This small café has become my haven of tranquillity.

Unwind and de-stress: – Relax and release tension or worry.
Example: It's the perfect spot to unwind and de-stress after a long week.

A space for introspection: – A place that encourages thoughtful examination of one's own thoughts and feelings.
Example: The quiet bench by the lake is my favourite space for introspection.


 

If you prepare for the topic "Describe a quiet place where you like to go sometimes", you should be able to talk about the following topics as well:

1) Describe a place where you like to go often.
2) Describe a peaceful place you like.
3) Describe a place that can be good for relaxing (except home)
4) Describe a place where you can learn something.
5) Describe a beautiful place where you often visit.
6) Describe something you often like to do in the evening.
 

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Rating 4.00 (7 Votes)