Cue Cards Samples with band 8 answers
Describe your favourite flower - Cue Card # 591
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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 your favourite flower.
You should say:
- what it is
- where it is grown
- if it is common in your country
and explain why it is your favourite flower.
[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:
Some people adore it as the “queen of the flowers”, while others like to call it “the flower of beauty and love”. Poets around the world have also written many, many poems about this particular flower because of its exceptional beauty. But, as for me, I just like to call it my favourite flower.
The flower I am talking about is, of course, “Rose”. Recognised as the flower of love, sympathy or sorrow, the cultivation of roses first began in China some 5000 years ago. After that, the flower only kept conquering the minds and hearts of millions around the world with its 150 different species or more, because of its stunning beauty and fragrance.
By the way, when talking about its beauty, the petal structure of this flower is so intricate that it's almost impossible to do roses any real justice in art. This beautiful flower can come in all colours, although a "black rose" is not actually black; rather, it looks very much like “dark red”. Each colour has a different symbolic meaning to us. For example, red means love, orange symbolises desire, while yellow means “joy” and so on.
Roses typically grow in warm climates, and flower in the summer months, but some roses can grow in the hot tropical climate as well, while others can grow in winter temperatures that drop as low as -50 degrees Fahrenheit. So, roses, essentially, can grow in a number of different climates. However, as for my country, it grows pretty much anywhere, including at home and out in the field. Many people in my country grow this plant on a commercial basis as there is a huge demand for it. In fact, I would say this flower is very common in my country.
Anyway, roses are my favourite flowers because they look just so gorgeous and have an exceptional fragrance. Besides, they also add a gorgeous look to the room in which they are kept. Finally, they are my favourite flowers because they are easy to get when I need them for any special occasion.
Model Answer 2:
Introduction:
Thank you for this great topic! My favourite flower is Jasmine, and I am glad to be able to talk about it here. It’s such a simple yet beautiful flower, and I’ll happily tell you why I love it so much.
What it is:
Well, Jasmine is a small, fragrant flower, often white or yellow, although there are some varieties in pink as well. What makes it stand out is its scent - it’s sweet, delicate, and really calming. It’s not just the look of the flower but the fragrance that makes it so special. It’s a flower that, when you come across it, immediately makes you stop and take a deep breath.
Where it is grown:
Jasmine is typically grown in tropical and subtropical climates, so it thrives in places where the weather is warm. It’s often seen growing on vines or shrubs, and the flowers bloom in clusters. You can usually find it in gardens, but it’s also common in public parks or even near homes because of its pleasant fragrance.
If it is common in your country:
Yes, Jasmine is quite common in my country. In fact, it’s often used in traditional rituals and festivals. You’ll see people wearing Jasmine garlands, especially during religious events, because of their purity and symbolic significance. It’s also a popular flower in gardens and is often grown near houses for its beautiful scent that fills the air, especially in the evenings. I’ve always loved the smell of Jasmine flowers, and even walking by a garden with Jasmine growing brings back so many memories of childhood.
And explain why it is your favourite flower:
Jasmine is my favourite flower mainly because of its fragrance. Every time I smell it, I feel instantly relaxed and calm. There’s something about it that makes me feel connected to nature, especially during the evenings when the scent seems to get stronger. I also find the way Jasmine blooms so beautiful. Moreover, it has this amazing ability to make the surroundings feel fresh and peaceful. Whether it’s in a garden or a small pot on a balcony, it always brings a touch of serenity.
Model Answer 3:
Sunflower is an amazingly beautiful flower that can be found in most parts of the world, and it is my favourite flower. The French word for sunflower literally means "turn with the sun", and sunflowers do just that, at least the young plants do. In my childhood, when I noticed this attribution of this flower, I became fascinated by it. I would like to thank you for giving me the chance to talk about my favourite flower.
The botanical name of the common sunflower is "Helianthus annuus", which I did not know until I started high school and had to memorise that for an exam. I also learned that sunflowers were first domesticated by Native Americans, who grew and harvested them thousands of years before the arrival of Europeans to North America.
Nowadays, this flower can be found in most parts of the world. Ukraine, Russia and Argentina are the top three sunflower-seed-producing countries in the world. This flower is widely available in my country, and it is hard to find someone who is not enchanted by the beauty of this flower. So I would say it is a pretty common flower in my country, and many gardeners love to have it in their gardens.
The practical use of this flower is also huge. Some seeds are produced for human consumption, while the relatively smaller seeds are used in commercial bird and animal foods. In my country, sunflower seeds are also a popular source of cooking oil.
Why do I like this flower? Well, I love the way it blooms and shines like the sun. A bouquet of thousands in one "flower", and this flower is the sunflower. The yellow petals and a dark and mystic centre that most of us think of as a sunflower isn't really one sunflower - it's hundreds of them. And this fact fascinates me. But, it is not my favourite flower for the mysticism it holds; rather, the beauty it symbolises. My grandmother had a garden full of sunflowers, and it attracted butterflies and bees to our landscape. This flower truly filled my childhood with animation and ecstasy.
Sample Answer 3:
I would like to thank you for this opportunity to let me talk about my favourite flower. I love the Corsage Orchid – the national flower of Brazil, more than any other flower I know about. So, here I'd like to describe this flower, which is also my favourite flower.
This flower grows in every region in Brazil but needs a warm temperature to grow well. I have two pots containing a few of these plants in my room, and they are a constant reminder of the beauty of nature to me. This is a great source of fresh fragrance for my living area. People often term the flower "Orchid Queen" for its beauty and extraordinary features.
The Corsage Orchid plant requires ample light and air to grow. A moderate temperature is a must for the plant to grow and bloom. The temperature, as referred to by the pot plant experts, needs to be between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. But the growers should be mindful to protect leaves from excessive sunburn. It is better if someone can manage an open area to grow the plant. Since the plant requires little care to grow, it is popular among professional as well as amateur gardeners.
Brazil is located in the eastern part of South America. The climatic condition of the country supports the growth of such flower plants. Consequently, the flowers are available in plenty in Brazil. The history of the Corsage Orchid to get the national flower status is interesting. Someone discovered this strange flower from some random leaves in Brazil, and a few years later, the flower bloomed and enchanted everyone.
The corsage Orchid flower looks gorgeous, and its fragrance makes me feel relaxed. The amazing colour of the flower is sure to enchant everyone, and it lasts for a long time. A large variety of this flower makes it more attractive to people. They shine brightly. So, I like this flower very much.
Idea generation for this Candidate task card / Cue card topic:
This topic asks you to describe a flower that you love the most. You should talk about what type of flower it is, where it usually grows, whether it is common in your country, and why you consider it your favourite. Below are several detailed ideas to help you build your own answer.
1. Rose:
The rose is one of the most iconic and widely admired flowers. It comes in many colours - red, pink, white, and yellow - each symbolising different emotions. Roses are commonly grown in gardens, parks, and even in flower farms across the country. They thrive in moderate climates and are often used in weddings and special ceremonies. I love roses because they symbolise love and elegance. The fragrance is calming, and the shape of the petals is beautifully intricate. I also associate it with happy memories from my childhood garden.
2. Lotus:
The lotus is a unique aquatic flower that grows in ponds and still water bodies. It is considered sacred in many cultures and has deep spiritual symbolism. In my country, it is commonly seen in temple ponds and countryside areas. I admire the lotus because it rises clean and beautiful from muddy water, which I find to be a powerful metaphor for resilience and purity. Its wide petals and soft colours make it visually stunning and spiritually meaningful at the same time.
3. Jasmine:
Jasmine is a small, white flower known for its intense, sweet fragrance. It is widely grown in home gardens and along fences. It blooms especially in the evening and is commonly used in perfumes and hair accessories. In my country, jasmine is very popular and is often used in traditional ceremonies. I love this flower because its scent is incredibly soothing and reminds me of peaceful summer nights. Despite its small size, it leaves a strong impression, and that’s what I admire most about it.
4. Sunflower:
The sunflower is a large, yellow flower known for turning its head to face the sun. It is grown in large open fields and requires plenty of sunlight. Although not extremely common in every region of my country, it is still well-recognised and loved. I find sunflowers cheerful and bright. They symbolise positivity, loyalty, and warmth. I like them because their vibrant colour lifts my mood instantly, and their size makes them stand out boldly among other flowers.
5. Marigold:
Marigolds are bright orange or yellow flowers that are hardy and easy to grow. They are found in most gardens, especially during festive seasons. In my country, marigolds are extremely common and are often used in religious and cultural celebrations. I like marigolds because of their rich colour, dense petals, and long-lasting nature. They are associated with good luck and joy, which makes them special to me.
6. Orchid:
Orchids are exotic and elegant flowers that come in a variety of shapes and colours. They are mostly grown in controlled environments like greenhouses, although some varieties grow naturally in tropical forests. Orchids are not very common in my region but are often seen in decorative arrangements and high-end flower shops. I love orchids because of their graceful appearance and the delicate balance of symmetry in their petals. They feel luxurious and rare, which makes them my favourite.
7. Hibiscus:
The hibiscus is a large, trumpet-shaped flower usually found in red, pink, or yellow. It grows easily in tropical climates and is often used in herbal teas and traditional medicine. In my country, hibiscus plants are common in household gardens and roadside greenery. I like hibiscus because of its bold appearance and medicinal value. Its vibrant colour and easy maintenance make it a flower I admire both for beauty and practicality.
8. Tulip:
Tulips are cup-shaped flowers that bloom in spring and come in many colours. They are usually grown in colder regions and are famous in countries like the Netherlands. In my country, tulips are not very common, but they can be found in florists and high-altitude gardens. I love tulips because of their clean shape and the simplicity of their elegance. They always look fresh, and their symmetrical petals give them a very modern and neat appearance.
9. Lavender:
Lavender is a purple flower known for its calming scent and beautiful appearance. It grows best in dry, sunny climates and is often used in essential oils and beauty products. In my country, lavender is not extremely common, but it's gaining popularity in herbal and wellness gardens. I like lavender because of its relaxing fragrance and soft, delicate look. It helps me feel calm and focused, and I find its colour very soothing to the eyes.
10. Daisy:
The daisy is a simple white flower with a yellow centre. It is found in grasslands, gardens, and sometimes by the roadside. It grows in abundance in moderate climates and is quite common in my country. I admire daisies for their simplicity and innocence. They remind me of childhood picnics and handmade flower crowns. Their cheerful, neat look always brings a smile to my face.
Vocabulary for this Candidate task card/ Cue card topic:
When describing your favourite flower, using specific vocabulary can effectively convey its name, where it's cultivated, its prevalence in your country, and the reasons for your personal preference. Thoughtful word choices will help you articulate its beauty, scent, and symbolic meaning, making your response both descriptive and heartfelt. Here are some relevant words and phrases:
Perennial: – A plant that lives for several years.
Example: My favourite flower, the rose, is a beautiful perennial plant.
Ornamental plant: – A plant grown for its beauty, often in gardens or as a houseplant.
Example: The flower is highly valued as an ornamental plant in landscaping.
Fragrant/Aromatic: – Having a pleasant or sweet smell.
Example: The fragrant aroma of jasmine blossoms fills the evening air.
Distinctive scent: – A unique and easily recognisable smell.
Example: It has a distinctive scent that I find incredibly refreshing.
Vibrant colour: – A very bright and vivid hue.
Example: I'm drawn to its vibrant colour, which stands out in any garden.
Symbolic meaning: – The deeper significance or representation of an object, often cultural or historical.
Example: The lotus flower holds deep symbolic meaning in many cultures.
Cultivated: – Prepared and used for growing crops or gardening.
Example: The flower is widely cultivated in home gardens and commercial nurseries.
Indigenous: – Originating or occurring naturally in a particular place; native.
Example: It is indigenous to the region, growing wild in the forests.
Rare: – Not occurring very often or in large amounts.
Example: This particular variety is quite rare and difficult to find.
Prevalent: – Widespread in a particular area or at a particular time.
Example: The flower is very prevalent throughout the country, especially in tropical regions.
Aesthetic appeal: – The pleasing, beautiful, or artistic quality of something.
Example: Its delicate shape and aesthetic appeal are what first attracted me to it.
Delicate petals: – Thin, easily damaged, or intricate flower parts.
Example: I love the intricate and delicate petals of the lily.
Captivating: – Capable of attracting and holding interest; fascinating.
Example: The beauty of the orchid is simply captivating.
Evokes a feeling: – Brings or recalls a particular emotion or memory to the conscious mind.
Example: Its smell evokes a feeling of peace and tranquillity for me.
Nostalgia: – A sentimental longing or wistful affection for a period in the past.
Example: The flower holds a special place in my heart, filled with a sense of nostalgia from my childhood.
Cherish: – To protect and care for someone or something lovingly.
Example: I cherish the memory of receiving a bouquet of these flowers.
More Ideas to talk about this Cue Card topic:
Cue Card Topic: Describe your favourite flower.
1. My garden in front of my house in Montreal is filled with Dahlias. This is the flower that I like the most for different reasons. First of all, I can grow these flowers inside the room and plant them outside when they are grown. Moreover, this flower is a symbol of beauty, and they are so gorgeous to look at.
2. African Lily is a wonderful flower, and I love it the most for some specific reasons. The smell of this flower is quite different from other types of flowers, and it looks gorgeous. Besides, this is a common flower in the UK.
3. I love the Pink Anemone more than any other flower. Several varieties of this flower are available across North America. It does not require much light and heat for proper growth. Winter is the perfect time to see this flower bloom and charm the people who look at it.
4. In India, a wide variety of flowers are available and "Zinnia" is my favourite flower. The flower does not need any specific climatic conditions to grow and flourish. I, actually, am in love with the flower for its exceptional fragrance and look.
5. The number of Japanese flowers is really large, but I adore the Japanese Cherry (also known as Sakura) the most. The flower is mainly available during the spring season. At the end of winter, the flower announces the arrival of the spring season, and people in my country love this flower very much.
6. China Rose is often considered the queen of all flowers for its special attractions. The flower is available around the year in China, and I like it for its distinctive colour and charming smell. The flower has been declared as the city flower in our country, and, of course, it is my favourite flower.
7. "Frangipani" is my favourite flower for many reasons. The flower looks extraordinary and is used mostly for worship purposes at temples in Thailand. The flower is found in white, pink and yellow colours. They are impressive to look at.
8. In Russia, we have many different flowers all around the year, and I prefer Chamomile the most. This is a member of the daisy flower family. I am basically in love with the fragrance of this flower. Besides, this is the national flower of our country, and that makes it more important to the citizens of Russia.
9. Germany has some distinct flowers, and among them, Arnica is my favourite one. The flower is used for different purposes, and sometimes for medicinal purposes. Arnica is also available in some other Asian and European countries.
If you can talk about this cue card topic, you should be able to answer the following topics as well:
1. Describe a common flower in your country.
2. Describe something beautiful you like so much.
3. Describe something you love to get as a gift.
4. Describe a beautiful flower you know about.
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