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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 a museum you have visited and liked.

You should say:

• what kind of museum it was
• when you went there
• what you saw and did there

and explain why you liked this museum.

[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 might argue otherwise, but I would certainly like to suggest that no trip to Toronto is complete without visiting the “Royal Ontario Museum” because it happens to be the largest museum of art, world culture and natural history of Canada. The museum attracts more than one million visitors every year from all over the world, making it the most visited museum in the country.

When I visited the museum a few years ago, I felt like I was looking at a “luminous beacon” (or a lighthouse), made of steel structure with aluminium cladding and prismatic forms of glasses, from the outside as if it wanted to make a bold statement to its visitors. But, what I saw, after entering the amazing-looking museum complex, was what just blew away my mind because it was so huge inside with so many things to see, I would actually need the entire day, if not longer, to be able to see only a fraction of it.

So, I chose to use my common sense instead and decided to see only those exhibitions which were generally popular among the common visitors. Included among those exhibitions are a “granite bust of Cleopatra” (an image of an ancient Egyptian goddess), the magnificent “Paradise of Maitreya”, a mural that once adorned the wall of a Chinese Buddhist monastery, back in the days of Khubilai Khan and Marco Polo, and the bat cave (presenting bats in a simulated natural habitat to show how bats use echolocation to navigate at night). Then, I also saw a lot of dinosaur fossils and skeletons, some of which were even real and original bones, among many other collections.

Anyway, I really liked visiting this museum because it allowed me to wander around without any barriers or restrictions. Of course, the layout was also great, the exhibits were all well-designed and interactive, and the information was easily absorbed. In fact, I would dare suggest that there was definitely something for everybody to see and enjoy. Finally, the exhibitions were great overall, and they all came at a fair price.

Model Answer 2:

Oh, I am glad to have been given the chance and time to talk about a museum that I have visited and liked. For this topic, I'd love to talk about the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. In my opinion, it's such an incredible place! So, it's basically an ethnographic museum located in Hanoi, and it's all about showcasing the diverse cultures of Vietnam's ethnic groups.

I visited there last summer with my family, and it was such a fascinating experience. The museum is beautifully designed, with indoor and outdoor exhibition areas. We spent hours exploring the exhibits, which included traditional clothing, artefacts, tools, and even reconstructed houses from different ethnic communities.

One of the highlights for me was the outdoor section, where they have life-size replicas of traditional houses from various ethnic groups. It was like stepping back in time and getting a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam. We also watched some traditional performances and demonstrations, which were really captivating.

What I liked most about the museum was how it celebrates the diversity of Vietnam's ethnic groups and highlights their unique customs, traditions, and way of life. It's not only educational but also promotes cultural understanding and appreciation. Plus, the museum grounds are so peaceful and well-maintained, making it a great place to spend a day exploring and learning.

Sample Answer 3:

I went to Paris a few months ago and visited the Museum of Perfume, and that was a unique experience for me. The exhibits of the museum were perfumes from different eras, regions and categories. In fact, the idea of exhibiting perfumes and perfume bottles was a bit unusual to me. It was a fabulous experience, and I felt wonderful with the displays of the museum. This is a nice candidate task card topic, and I am feeling lucky to have it in my share.

I went to this museum last February. The museum is located in Paris where I went to close a business deal. I got some leisurely hours to spend after a successful business meeting. So, I decided to visit some of the notable places in the city and went to this museum after doing some online research. I learned that it was a private museum that began its journey in 1983. The mansion where the museum is located looks exquisite with its Napoleonic style. I instantly liked it.

Aside from the fact that the structure and design of the museum looked strikingly beautiful, the perfume collections of different ages, countries and kinds were something worth enjoying. Luckily, I got a guided tour and came to know about the history of different perfumes, their ingredients, and how they evolved. Most of the information was unknown to me, and I enjoyed what I learned.

I liked this museum as it revealed many secrets of perfumes and informed the visitors about the history of perfumes of different ages. It preserves a remarkable number of items related to perfume production and displays hundreds of perfumes. The whole idea that a museum could be dedicated to perfumes was something unique to me, and that's why I enjoyed such a great and unprecedented experience.

Model Answer 4: 

Thank you very much for letting me talk about a museum where I have been to and relished my experience. In fact, whenever I visit a new city or a new country, I try to go to famous museums there to learn more about its history, culture, people and way of life. For this topic, I would like to talk about the "National Museum of Australia", which I visited more than once and which is one of the best museums I have ever been to.

As far as I know, this museum was established in 1980, not long ago, and it is located in Acton, Australia. This museum preserves and interprets the social history of Australia and represents the people and events that have primarily shaped the country. It is a prominent witness of Australia's history. I went to visit the museum in 2016 for the first time with my father. I was merely a teenager at that time. However, I went there with some of my friends in 2022 for the second time, and the memory of my visit is still fresh.

My latest visit to the museum was a fabulous experience. I learned that this is the world's largest museum in terms of its collection of Aboriginal bark paintings. It has more than 50 thousand years of indigenous heritage and prolific collections of different events in Australian history. It is a must-visit place for anyone interested in Australian history. This museum is also famous for its publications of a wide range of books, journals and catalogues, along with the innovative technology it utilises, that have brought an international reputation for the museum.

The location of the museum is another attraction to the visiting tourists as it is situated on the Acton peninsula, and it offers a great view both from the inside and outside. I was taken aback by the splendid and memorable way it had decorated its entrance, a unique design for a museum.

Anyone will find so many reasons to like this museum, and I adored it specifically for its outstanding design, use of technology and unique collections. Visiting this museum was like witnessing the past, and I felt like I had been time travelling to the past. I liked it so much that I would like to visit it again someday.

Model Answer 5:

This is a wonderful topic, and it reminds me of my trip to a fabulous museum a year ago. Before I share my experience with you, I'd like to thank you for the time and opportunity to let me talk about it. This was an experience of a trip to the British Museum in London. It was a splendid autumn afternoon when I had the pleasure of exploring the treasure trove of history and culture in this very museum.

The British Museum is an unparalleled storehouse of human history, boasting a vast collection of artefacts spanning millennia and continents. I visited there last year during a trip to London, and from the moment I stepped through its grand entrance, I was captivated by its sheer majesty.

As I wandered through the labyrinthine halls of the museum, I was mesmerised by the diverse wonders on display. From the towering Egyptian mummies to the exquisite Greek sculptures, each exhibit transported me to a different time and place, offering glimpses into the rich tapestry of human civilisation. One of the highlights of my visit was exploring the Rosetta Stone, a remarkable artefact that unlocked the secrets of ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs. Standing before this iconic relic, I couldn't help but marvel at the ingenuity of our ancestors and the enduring power of human intellect.

What truly set the British Museum apart for me was its commitment to fostering cross-cultural understanding and dialogue. The museum's diverse collections showcased the interconnectedness of civilisations across the globe, reminding me of our shared humanity and history.

I feel that my visit to the British Museum was a truly enriching experience that left an incredible impression on me. Its unparalleled collection, immersive exhibits, and commitment to fostering cultural exchange make it a must-visit destination for anyone with a thirst for knowledge and a love for history.

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

This topic asks you to describe a museum that you personally visited and enjoyed. You should mention what type of museum it was, when the visit happened, what you explored or experienced there, and what made it a positive and memorable experience for you. Below are some detailed ideas to help you structure your answer:

1. A history museum:
I once visited a history museum that focused on the ancient and medieval periods of civilisation. The visit took place during a school trip a few years ago. Inside, I saw old weapons, traditional clothing, ancient coins, and models of historical buildings. There were also interactive displays that allowed us to explore virtual reconstructions of old cities. I liked this museum because it made history feel alive, and I left with a deeper understanding of how people lived in the past.

2. A science and technology museum:
I visited a science and technology museum that featured innovations from past centuries to the modern era. I went there with a group of classmates during the summer break. There were displays of early inventions like steam engines, old radios, and the first computers, as well as modern exhibits on robotics and artificial intelligence. What made the experience exciting was the chance to try out interactive machines and watch live science experiments. I liked this museum because it sparked my curiosity and made learning fun.

3. An art museum:
I visited an art museum that displayed paintings, sculptures, and digital art from various time periods. I went there during a weekend city tour. Some of the paintings were several hundred years old, while others were very modern and abstract. I also attended a short workshop where visitors could try sketching with guidance. I liked this museum because it gave me a sense of peace and inspiration, and I appreciated the creative expression shown in each piece.

4. A natural history museum:
This museum was focused on the evolution of life, including dinosaurs, plants, and animals. I went there with my family during a holiday trip. The highlight was the life-sized dinosaur skeletons and a section with preserved insects and rare minerals. There were also realistic models and sounds that made it feel like walking through a prehistoric world. I liked this museum because it was both educational and visually impressive, and it gave me a better understanding of Earth’s history.

5. A cultural heritage museum:
I visited a museum that showcased traditional clothing, tools, and customs from different regions. It was part of a cultural festival, and I went with some relatives. We saw how different communities lived, what they wore, how they cooked, and the kind of music they played. There were also live demonstrations of traditional crafts. I liked this museum because it celebrated cultural diversity and made me more aware of different ways of life.

6. A maritime museum:
I went to a maritime museum that focused on naval history and sea exploration. This visit happened during a coastal vacation. I saw ship models, historical maps, sailor uniforms, and even an old submarine that we could walk through. Some exhibits showed how sea routes developed over time. I liked this museum because it gave a fascinating glimpse into ocean life and the history of travel and trade across the seas.

7. A war museum:
I visited a war museum that chronicled the events of a major conflict, including the stories of soldiers and civilians. I went with a group of students for a school assignment. The exhibits included weapons, letters from soldiers, and emotional photo galleries. There were also short documentaries that helped us understand the human side of war. I liked this museum because it was deeply moving and helped me appreciate the sacrifices made by people during difficult times.

8. A children’s discovery museum:
This was a museum designed especially for children and young learners. I visited it with my younger sibling. It had hands-on exhibits like puzzle stations, water experiments, and small models showing how everyday machines work. There were also storytelling corners and art rooms. I liked this museum because it was playful, educational, and made learning feel like an adventure, especially seeing how engaged the children were.

9. A modern innovation museum:
This museum focused on recent innovations in fields like space technology, renewable energy, and smart cities. I went there during a youth science expo. The museum displayed prototypes of drones, solar panels, and eco-friendly products. There were also talks and demonstrations by engineers and inventors. I liked this museum because it felt forward-thinking and gave me hope about the future of technology and sustainability.

10. A photography museum:
I visited a museum that displayed historical and contemporary photographs taken by professionals and amateurs. It was a small but well-curated place I found while exploring the city. Each section focused on a theme - nature, war, city life, and portraits. The way the photos captured emotion, time, and place was striking. I liked this museum because it showed how powerful storytelling can be without words.

Vocabulary for this Topic:

When describing a museum you visited and enjoyed, using specific vocabulary can effectively convey its type, the timing of your visit, the exhibits and activities experienced, and your overall appreciation for it. Thoughtful word choices will help you articulate the museum's appeal and its impact on your knowledge or perspective, making your response both informative and engaging. Here are some relevant words and phrases:

Art museum/gallery: – A museum that primarily displays works of art, such as paintings, sculptures, and installations.
Example: I recently visited a stunning art museum that featured both classical and contemporary works.

History museum: – A museum dedicated to preserving and exhibiting historical artefacts and narratives.
Example: The history museum offered a comprehensive overview of the country's past.

Science museum: – A museum that showcases scientific discoveries, technological innovations, and natural phenomena, often with interactive exhibits.
Example: My favourite was a science museum with many hands-on experiments for visitors.

Natural history museum: – A museum that displays exhibits related to natural history, including animals, plants, geology, and fossils.
Example: The natural history museum had an incredible dinosaur skeleton display.

Interactive exhibits: – Displays that allow visitors to engage actively rather than just observe.
Example: The interactive exhibits in the science museum made learning incredibly fun.

Artefacts: – Objects made by humans, typically of cultural or historical interest.
Example: We saw ancient artefacts dating back thousands of years.

Exhibits/Displays: – Collections of items shown to the public.
Example: The special exhibits on ancient civilisations were particularly captivating.

Curated collection: – A carefully selected and organised collection of items, often by an expert.
Example: The museum boasted a beautifully curated collection of impressionist paintings.

Educational experience: – An activity or event that provides knowledge or develops skills.
Example: It was a highly educational experience that broadened my understanding of the subject.

Immersive: – Providing deep involvement or absorption in something.
Example: The virtual reality tour provided an immersive experience of life in ancient times.

Thought-provoking: – Stimulating careful thought or discussion.
Example: Some of the contemporary art pieces were very thought-provoking.

Well-preserved: – Maintained in its original or excellent condition.
Example: I was amazed by how well-preserved some of the historical documents were.

Engaging: – Holding one's interest or attention.
Example: The way the stories were told made the history lessons incredibly engaging.

Enlightening: – Providing or tending to provide knowledge or understanding.
Example: The visit was truly enlightening, shedding new light on many historical events.

Fascinating: – Extremely interesting.
Example: I found the entire experience utterly fascinating.

Inspiring: – Having the effect of inspiring someone.
Example: Learning about the scientific breakthroughs showcased there was truly inspiring.

Memorable: – Worth remembering or easily remembered.
Example: It was a memorable visit that I would highly recommend to others.

More idea generating:

Cue Card Topic: Describe a museum you have visited and liked.

1. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, better known as the 'Met', is a classic place in New York, in the USA, to visit. I was amazed by the stunning paintings and sculptures that the museum displayed for visitors. I thoroughly enjoyed my time there.

2. My visit to the Pergamon Museum in Berlin gave me the biggest surprise of my life. The museum was filled with fantastic artefacts. I wondered at the huge Altar of Zeus. In fact, I did not have any idea about it before. Finally, the Ishtar Gate of Babylon was a gem to discover.   

3. The Indian Museum in Kolkata contains some rare collections and ornaments of ancient times. It comes with six sections and contains numerous scientific and cultural artefacts. The museum was founded in 1814, and it is still a great attraction for many tourists and locals.

4. The Canada Science and Technology Museum is a wonderful place to get new ideas about science and technology. The museum has exhibitions of virtual travelling, science and so on. It also runs some educational programmes.

5. My last visit to the Acropolis Museum was awesome. The museum mostly focuses on the archaeological findings of Athens. The museum houses numerous artefacts, including rocks of different ages. It was founded in 2003 and it has gained huge popularity these days.

6. The Army Museum in my country is a great place indeed to learn about the military of the country. It is located in the capital city of our country and has been in operation since 1961. The museum contains relics of the Army like old uniforms, tanks, weaponry etc.

7. The Hong Kong Science Museum exhibits the wonders of science. This is a thematic museum in Kowloon, Hong Kong. It exhibits areas for children, driving simulation, video flight etc. The museum houses around 500 exhibits.

8. The Museum of Islamic Art is located in Doha, Qatar, and it is a magnificent place where some old Islamic manuscripts are exhibited. The ceramic and metal works are impressive. Besides, the musical events of this museum are adorable.

9. My recent visit to the State Russian Museum was exceptional. It was established in 1895. The collections of the museum were taken from some other museums, but the prevalence of private collections is greater there.

If you can talk about this cue card topic, you should be able to answer the following topics as well:

1. Describe your favourite museum.
2. Describe a museum in your city/country.
3. Describe a museum or art gallery that you want to visit.
4. Describe a museum or art gallery which does not have an entry fee.
5. Describe a place you would like to visit again.
6. Describe a worth-visiting place for tourists in your city.
7. Describe a place you went to with your friends.
8. Describe a place you would recommend to a foreign tourist to visit.
9. Describe a famous museum or gallery you have visited.
10. Describe a public place in your city. 

• IELTS Cue Card
• IELTS Speaking
• Candidate Task Card
• Speaking Part 2

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