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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 once borrowed from your friend or family.

You should say:

• what you borrowed
• when you borrowed it
• whom you borrowed it from

and explain why you borrowed it.

[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:

Thank you for this opportunity to let me discuss something I once borrowed from a friend or family member. I believe that borrowing items from loved ones can often signify trust and reliance on their support. One such instance stands out vividly in my memory, which I'd like to share with you today.

Several months ago, I needed a reliable camera for a special photography project I was undertaking. Unfortunately, at the time, I did not own a high-quality camera that met the requirements of the project. Therefore, I turned to my cousin, Samia, who is an avid photographer and owns an impressive DSLR camera.

Samia graciously offered to lend me her camera for the duration of my project, understanding the importance of having the right equipment to capture the desired images effectively. I borrowed her camera for approximately two weeks, during which I used it extensively to capture the intricate details and nuances of the subjects I was photographing.

I borrowed the camera from Samia because I knew that she owned top-notch equipment that would enable me to produce high-quality photographs for my project. Moreover, I trusted her to lend me the camera responsibly, knowing that she valued her equipment and would expect me to take good care of it.

Borrowing Samia's DSLR camera proved to be a pivotal decision that significantly improved the outcome of my photography project. Her generosity and willingness to lend me her valuable equipment exemplified the spirit of support and camaraderie that exists within our family.

Model Answer 2:

I have always remained a very vocal “opponent” of borrowing anything from anybody, either because it would put a question mark on my “financial ability” or present me as a “miserly” person to others. But necessity knows no bounds, and I also needed to borrow something, a scientific calculator that is, from one of my distant relatives.

It was about 6 years ago when I was still a high school student, and I was eagerly waiting to get over with my final term examination. Everything was going well as I was finishing taking one test after another until the day to appear for the “Trigonometry” test arrived. As usual, I was ready to get out of my house and hit the road in order to take part in the “Trigonometry” test.

But, unfortunately, just when I was checking my calculator for the last time to make sure it was in good working condition, I found out to my extreme “horror” that it wasn’t working at all! I checked the battery (which I had put in only a month before) and everything else by pushing all the “buttons” one after another, but it just wouldn’t switch on. So, I immediately decided to run to a nearby local store in order to buy the same kind of calculator, but all I could find there was a huge disappointment, as it didn’t have any scientific calculators for sale.

At this point, I felt very “helpless”. But, just when I was about to give up my hope of getting a calculator, I thought of asking a distant relative of mine, who was also a math teacher, to rescue me. And, what a rescue it really was!

Anyway, I needed to borrow the calculator because travelling to different stores one after another, without actually knowing which store was selling that type of calculator, would surely make me late for my test. I had to borrow the scientific tool also because, without it, I couldn’t really do much in my “Trigonometry” test as far as the issue of getting a good grade was concerned.

Model Answer 3:

I'd like to thank you for the opportunity you have given me to talk about something I once borrowed from a friend or a relative. To be honest, I can recall many such events when I had to turn to a friend or family member for something I required. However, for this topic, I'll talk about an event when I borrowed two thousand dollars from my father.

Just after finishing college, I, along with two of my friends, planned to start a small business. It was 2023, and I was convinced to be a partner of the proposed business. That's why I borrowed the money from my father. Besides my university, I got serious about our new venture, and I was able to return the money within a year that I had taken from my father as a loan. When I returned the money to my father, he seemed surprised, and I explained how our interior design venture is flourishing day by day. He told me that he was quite astonished that our little enterprise eventually saw the light of success. I thanked him for the money and explained how we worked together to make it a success. I also showed my gratitude and mentioned that without his money, I could not have been a part of this business.

Numerous times, I borrowed books, laptops, music players, money, CDs and so on from my friends and relatives, but the two thousand dollars that I took from my father was something quite different, and I am lucky that I decided to borrow it from my father for a good reason, which is eventually paying off. 

Model Answer 4:

About a year ago, amidst the flurry of daily life, I was in a dilemma that required a quick solution. I had long been intrigued by the art of baking, and an upcoming family gathering gave me the perfect opportunity to showcase my newfound skills. However, as the event drew nearer, I realised with dismay that I lacked one crucial tool: a stand mixer. Thank you very much for this topic, and I'll share with you this event today.

With the event approaching fast and my baking aspirations hanging in the balance, I turned to my friend, Emily, who was known for her well-equipped kitchen. Knowing that Emily possessed a sturdy stand mixer, I hesitantly approached her. To my relief and delight, Emily readily agreed to lend me her prized appliance, understanding my situation.

Soon after, I started with my baking tasks with renewed enthusiasm. Over the next few days, I experimented with various recipes, mixing batter and kneading dough to perfection. Emily's stand mixer proved to be an indispensable tool, effortlessly blending ingredients and streamlining the baking process. As the day of the family gathering arrived, I proudly presented an array of freshly baked treats, each one being loved and praised.

In the end, Emily's stand mixer saved the day and sparked a newfound passion for baking within me. The memory of that borrowed appliance serves as a reminder of the kindness and support that can be found in the most unexpected places.

Sample Answer 5: 

Once I had to borrow a history textbook from one of my friends, and I would like to talk about this event here today. I am an undergraduate student, and I took the History of Ancient Civilisations course in my fourth semester. I needed the book because I lost mine, and needed to get some information to complete an important assignment.

I borrowed the book “History and Our Footsteps” from Hien Long. He is a good friend of mine and lives near my residence. He is a helpful person and lent me the book though he needed it for the same purpose. I was happy to have the book, and Long was delighted that he had helped me.

I needed the book urgently to get some information to prepare an assignment that I was due to submit in a week. Unfortunately, I lost my book and did not know how it was lost! If I failed to submit the assignment, it might have been difficult for me to pass the course. As I remember, it was a comparatively easier assignment, and took only a few hours for me to complete but I could not have done it without having the textbook as a reference.

I knew that I would require the book to complete the assignment, but I could not buy it right then. So, I sought help from Long as he lived nearby. I asked him to lend me the book and I promised to return it the next day. He was supportive enough and came to my home with the book, and then I completed the assignment. I thanked him heartily for his genuine help.

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

This topic asks you to describe an object you borrowed from a friend or family member in the past. You should explain what the item was, when and from whom you borrowed it, and the reason behind borrowing it. It could be something small and personal or something more valuable or important. Below are some detailed ideas to help you generate your response:

1. A laptop:
I once borrowed a laptop from a family member when mine suddenly stopped working just a day before an important assignment was due. It happened during my final year at university. I explained the situation and was kindly lent a spare device for two days. I used it to complete and submit my project on time. I borrowed it because getting a new one quickly wasn’t an option, and I couldn’t afford to miss the deadline.

2. A formal suit:
I had to attend a job interview, but I didn’t own a proper formal suit at the time. I borrowed one from a friend who was around the same size as me. This happened about a year ago. The suit was well-fitted and helped me feel confident and professional during the interview. I borrowed it because I didn’t want to spend money on a new outfit for a one-time event, and I was grateful for the support.

3. A set of cooking utensils:
I once borrowed a few cooking utensils from a family member when I hosted a small dinner party at my place. I didn’t have enough pots and pans to prepare all the dishes. This happened last year during the holiday season. I asked for help, and they gladly lent me what I needed. I returned everything clean and intact the next day. I borrowed the items to avoid unnecessary expense for something I only needed temporarily.

4. A camera:
A few months ago, I borrowed a camera from a friend to photograph a college event I was involved in. The event was a student-organised fair, and I had been assigned to take high-quality photos. Since I didn’t own a DSLR, I reached out for help. The camera helped me take professional shots that were later published on the college’s social media pages. I borrowed it because smartphone pictures wouldn’t have been suitable for the occasion.

5. A novel:
I borrowed a novel from a friend who had recommended it to me. I was curious after hearing how much they loved the story. This happened during a quiet period between semesters when I had time to relax. The book turned out to be quite engaging and inspiring. I borrowed it mainly out of interest, and also to avoid buying a copy for a one-time read.

6. A bicycle:
During a weekend trip, I borrowed a bicycle from a cousin to explore the nearby town and countryside. My own bike was not suitable for travel, and renting one was costly. They lent me theirs without hesitation. I used it for two days and returned it in good condition. I borrowed it because I wanted to enjoy the outdoors without relying on public transport or walking long distances.

7. A musical instrument:
When I joined a school performance group, I needed a keyboard to practice at home. I didn’t own one, so I borrowed it from a friend who wasn’t using theirs at the time. I used it for about two weeks to rehearse a song. It made a big difference in my confidence and performance. I borrowed it because I couldn’t afford a new one and didn’t want to miss out on the opportunity to participate.

8. A travel bag:
Before going on a short vacation, I realised my own travel bag had a broken zip. I borrowed a sturdy suitcase from a family member. It was more spacious and durable than mine, which made travelling much easier. I returned it after the trip, cleaned and in perfect shape. I borrowed it to avoid last-minute shopping and unnecessary spending for something I rarely use.

9. A power bank:
While preparing for a day-long outdoor event, I borrowed a power bank from a friend. I knew I would be using my phone frequently and wouldn’t have access to a charger. The power bank kept my phone charged the entire day. I borrowed it to avoid running out of battery during important communication or navigation moments.

10. A scientific calculator:
Right before an important exam, I realised my calculator wasn’t functioning properly. I borrowed a scientific calculator from a classmate who had a spare one. The exam required complex calculations, so having the right tool was essential. I borrowed it because it was a last-minute emergency, and without it, I would have been at a huge disadvantage.

Vocabulary for this Candidate task card/ Cue card topic:

When describing an item you borrowed from a friend or family member, using specific vocabulary can effectively convey the nature of the item, the circumstances of the loan, the person involved, and your reasons for borrowing it. Thoughtful word choices will help you articulate the convenience or necessity of the borrowing, and your feelings about the experience, making your response both clear and relatable. Here are some relevant words and phrases:

Loan: – A thing that is borrowed, especially a sum of money that is expected to be paid back with interest.
Example: I needed a short-term loan of their camera for a photography project.

Lend: – To grant to someone (something) on condition that it or its equivalent will be returned.
Example: My friend was kind enough to lend me her portable charger when mine ran out.

Borrow: – To take and use (something belonging to another) with the intention of returning it.
Example: I often borrow books from my cousin, as we share similar tastes in literature.

Temporary basis: – For a limited period of time; not permanently.
Example: I needed the item on a temporary basis, just for the weekend.

Urgent need: – A pressing or immediate requirement for something.
Example: I had an urgent need for a specific tool to complete a repair.

Convenience: – The state of being able to proceed with something with little difficulty or effort.
Example: Borrowing it from him was a matter of sheer convenience, as he lived nearby.

Necessity: – The fact of being required or indispensable.
Example: It was more of a necessity than a luxury at that moment.

Reliance: – Dependence on or trust in someone or something.
Example: I had to rely on my friend's generosity to get through that situation.

Reliable friend/family member: – A trustworthy and dependable person within one's social or familial circle.
Example: I borrowed it from a reliable friend whom I knew I could count on.

Handy: – Convenient to handle or use; useful.
Example: His power drill came in very handy when I was assembling furniture.

Lifesaver: – A thing that saves a person or thing from difficulty or danger.
Example: That portable charger was an absolute lifesaver during my trip.

Appreciative: – Feeling or showing gratitude or pleasure.
Example: I was incredibly appreciative of their willingness to help me out.

Grateful: – Feeling or showing an appreciation of kindness; thankful.
Example: I felt immensely grateful for their understanding and prompt assistance.

Indebted: – Owing gratitude for service or favour.
Example: I felt a little indebted to them for their kindness.

Reciprocate: – Respond to (a gesture or action) by making a corresponding one.
Example: I always try to reciprocate such favours whenever the opportunity arises.

Mutual trust: – A shared belief in the reliability, truth, ability, or strength of someone or something.
Example: Our ability to borrow from each other stems from a long history of mutual trust.

Idea generating:

Cue Card Topic: Describe something you once borrowed from your friend or family.

1. Before going to the office last Monday, I needed to have some change to pay the bus fare. But I could not manage it and lent some coins from my mom. In fact, it is hard to get a change of a large banknote in New Delhi, and my mother was happy to offer her help.

2. I was supposed to go to a birthday party in my town last November, but I could not find my necktie. So I borrowed that from my dad. It was not unusual for me to borrow something from my dad, but when I borrowed the necktie from him, I realised how important it is for me to be more careful about my wardrobe. 

3. Usually, I do not borrow things from others, but I had to break the rule last month. During a tutorial exam at my university, I had to borrow a pen. Actually, my pen ran out of ink and I did not have a spare one to complete the exam. I was relieved when Martha lent me one of her pens.

4. Smokers have rules worldwide. They do not hesitate to exchange cigarettes. I borrowed a cigarette from a friend cum colleague several times. I am an IT professional in Cordova, Spain and actually forgot to buy my cigarette pack that day.

5. My phone ran out of charge a few days ago, and only then did I remember about an important phone call that I was supposed to make! So, I borrowed my dad’s phone. Putting my phone on charge, I lent the phone and met the emergency.

6. I love to play badminton, and this is a popular sport in Japan. I had to borrow a badminton racket from a friend of mine as I had broken mine the day before. It was a sad event for me because that was my favourite sporting tool. When my friend lent me his bat, I was a bit relieved.

7. Nicholas lent me his paint sprayer because I needed it to paint my kitchen. I have recently rented a small apartment in Leeds, and it is located on the 8th floor of a residential complex. So when I wanted to decorate the house, I needed the paint sprayer to renovate the kitchen. Nicholas saved me from buying an expensive sprayer on that day.

8. Last semester, I had to attend a formal presentation at my college and to do so, I borrowed a formal suit from Robin - my best friend. In fact, we all were told to wear formal attire on that day, and mine was left at home in New York. So, I needed to borrow one for the presentation.

Your preparation for this cue card topic would help you talk about the following topics as well:

1. Describe something you borrowed that was useful to you.
2. Describe an item you borrowed from one of your neighbours.
3. Describe a gift that one of your family members gave you.
4. Describe a situation when someone you know helped you.
5. Describe an item you do not have but would like to have.
6. Describe a time when you rented or hired an item.
7. Describe something you own but do not use much.

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

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