Cue Cards Samples with band 8 answers
Describe a beautiful house you have been to - Cue Card # 613
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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 beautiful house/ home you have been to.
You should say:
- where it was
- how it looked like
- when you visited there and why
and explain why you think this was a beautiful house.
[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 very much for this great topic. Rather than telling you about a ‘typical’ home I know, I want to share with you the story of possibly the most amazing house I’ve ever been lucky enough to visit.
So, the story is: I was travelling in Australia, and an elderly relative of mine, now living in the UK, had spent many years working there and was really keen that I look up an old friend of hers who lived in the rainforest in a quite remote part of Queensland, near a coastal village called Cardwell.
After a few months or so, I arrived at her ‘house’. Oh! My! I have never seen anything like it before or since! Imagine a little wooden house, raised up on stilts, with a veranda completely encircling the structure, a rather crude slatted wooden roof and wooden interior walls. Imagine all of this, but with no external walls! It was as if the property had just grown organically from the forest floor.
The weather was warm year round in this part of the world, and clearly, my host felt very safe in the forest. Rather than have a barrier between her and the forest, she chose to have no exterior walls, her living space merged with the plants and animals that surrounded her. I think there may have been a low wooden fence at the back of the property, but really this was mainly to stop things falling off her platform, rather than give privacy or security!
What did I like?! Well, the feeling of being a part of the rainforest was the most amazing part. It was an unobtrusive dwelling, probably we would call it ‘eco-friendly’ in the language of today. She told me that sometimes she’d be having an early breakfast on her porch and see cassowaries wander past. They are incredibly shy and rare, and so that is a remarkable thing. I loved the quirkiness of the house, and the minimalism of her furnishings. You really don’t need very much in the way of material things to have a good life. Also, I suppose there’s very little point in having lots of possessions when the rainforest might encroach on you at any moment. The house is a physical reminder of a memory that otherwise seems almost too extraordinary to be true!
[Lucy Marris: Careers Adviser (UK), TEFL teacher (Vietnam)]
Model Answer 2:
Thank you for this topic that asks me to talk about a beautiful house I have visited. I know exactly what house I'd like to talk about. Well, I remember visiting a stunning house nestled amidst the serene countryside in a village where I had been three years ago. It belonged to my friend's family and left an indelible impression on me. I went to a party hosted by the parents of my friend.
Situated in lush greenery and surrounded by beautiful flowers and tall trees, the house exuded an aura of tranquillity and charm. As we approached the house, I was fascinated by its picturesque exterior, decorated with ivy-clad walls and a pastoral wooden door. The sprawling lawn, meticulously manicured, added to the overall charisma of the property. The spacious living room boasted high ceilings, large windows that allowed ample natural light to filter in, and tastefully chosen furniture that exuded comfort and style. It overlooked a verdant garden, where fresh herbs and vegetables were grown, adding a touch of freshness.
As I explored the house further, I was struck by the attention to detail evident in every aspect of its design. From the cosy reading nook tucked away in a corner to the spacious bedrooms decorated with plush bedding and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, every element seemed thoughtfully created and built for comfort and relaxation.
What truly made this house beautiful was not just its physical attributes but also the warmth and hospitality of its occupants. The family welcomed us with open arms, and their genuine warmth and hospitality made us feel right at home. It was evident that the house was more than just a physical space; it was a sanctuary where memories were made, laughter echoed through the halls, and love abounded.
Sample Answer 3:
Living in an ordinary neighbourhood has its disadvantages, and some advantages as well. But, when I visit some really rich neighbourhood houses, I look at them rather closely and appreciate their elegant and beautiful features just like I did when I visited one of my friends' house to attend his birthday party about a few years ago.
The magnificent “row house” was conveniently located in one of the beautiful suburbs of my hometown which was only about a 15-minute drive away from my rather “modest” looking home.
As soon as I entered the house, I could see a small but finicky garden, flaunting right at the entrance in order to impress me. After entering the house, I could also see an elegant living room with which is attached a rather stylish and “chic” family dining space. Adjacent to the “munching” area is a healthy kitchen which is really fashionable with enough empty space in it. The house has three graceful and fancy bedrooms with the master bath on one side and the other two bedrooms on the opposite side of the house, with just about perfect proximity to each other. There are translucent curtains, running throughout the entire house, which are painted in a light champagne tint, bringing in the required brightness and airiness in perfect measure.
Anyway, the house was really beautiful mainly because it was neither too big nor too small where all of its furniture seemed to have fitted just perfectly. Another distinct but equally elegant feature of the house was that it could receive enough air from virtually all directions. Besides, I also noticed that the entire lighting system of the house was very much in harmony with the paintings of the house's interior. Finally, I thought that it was a really beautiful house also because it was surrounded by beautiful nature with some beautiful trees and the chirping of the birds on them which I could enjoy by sitting on one of the balconies of the house anytime.
Idea generation for this Candidate task card / Cue card topic:
This topic asks you to describe a beautiful house or home that you have visited. It could be a friend’s home, a relative’s house, or even a property you saw during a vacation. You should mention its location, what it looked like, when and why you went there, and explain what made it beautiful in your eyes. Here are a few ideas to help you develop your own response:
1. The countryside cottage of my friend Ella – UK:
Located in the Lake District, my friend Ella’s family cottage is surrounded by rolling green hills and scenic views. I visited it during a spring break. The house had a traditional stone exterior with wooden interiors, a fireplace, and a large garden full of blooming flowers. The peaceful setting and cosy design made it feel like a storybook home.
2. The modern villa of my cousin Trang – Vietnam:
Trang lives in a newly built villa on the outskirts of Da Nang. I visited her during the Tet holiday. The house featured a sleek glass façade, a rooftop garden, and an indoor fish pond. The natural light and minimalist décor made it feel open and refreshing. I loved how the design combined modern aesthetics with natural elements.
3. The ancestral home of my uncle Rajiv – India:
Rajiv uncle’s home is located in Jaipur and has traditional Rajasthani architecture. I visited it during a family wedding. It had intricately carved wooden doors, vibrant wall paintings, and a central courtyard with a fountain. The historical charm and cultural richness made it a truly beautiful and unforgettable home.
4. The luxury apartment of my friend William – London:
William invited me to his apartment near Canary Wharf for a New Year’s party. The place was on the 25th floor and had floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of the city skyline. The interior was tastefully furnished in a modern style, with smart lighting and elegant decor. It felt stylish, warm, and high-end.
5. The bamboo house of my classmate Linh – Vietnam:
Linh’s family owns an eco-friendly bamboo house in a village near Hue. I stayed there during a school trip. The house was built entirely of bamboo and wood, with open spaces and no artificial lighting during the day. Surrounded by rice fields and ponds, it was serene and naturally beautiful. I admired the simplicity and environmental consciousness of the design.
6. The farmhouse of my aunt Sara – Pakistan:
Aunt Sara’s farmhouse is located on the outskirts of Lahore. I visited during my summer vacation. The house was spacious with wide verandas, traditional wooden furniture, and a large courtyard with mango trees. The combination of rustic charm and comfort made it feel welcoming and lovely.
7. The hilltop house of my Chinese friend Zhao – China:
Zhao’s house is situated on a hill near Guilin, offering breathtaking views of the karst mountains. I stayed there during a student exchange programme. The house was built with traditional sloping roofs and red wooden beams. Its scenic surroundings and peaceful ambience made it one of the most beautiful places I have ever visited.
8. The beach house of my mentor Jonathan – Australia:
Jonathan owns a beachside home in Byron Bay, and I visited it for a weekend retreat. The house was airy and modern, with large sliding doors that opened directly to the beach. The sound of waves, sea breeze, and white interiors created a calming and luxurious environment. It was beautiful in every sense.
9. The mansion of my distant relative Fatima – UAE:
Fatima’s home in Dubai is an elegant mansion with high ceilings, chandeliers, and marble floors. I visited her during Eid. The luxurious design, lush garden, and hospitality made the experience unforgettable. Every room was decorated tastefully, making the house feel like a palace.
10. The treehouse retreat I stayed in – Thailand:
During a holiday in Chiang Mai, I booked a stay in a unique treehouse surrounded by forest. It was built on sturdy wooden stilts and had a spiral staircase leading up to a cosy room. The design blended perfectly with nature, and waking up to birdsong was magical. It was a different kind of beauty—more natural and adventurous.
Vocabulary for this Candidate task card/ Cue card topic:
When describing a beautiful house or home you've visited, using specific vocabulary can effectively convey its location, aesthetic appeal, the context of your visit, and your personal appreciation for its charm. Thoughtful word choices will help you articulate the design elements, atmosphere, and overall impression the home left on you, making your response both descriptive and engaging. Here are some relevant words and phrases:
Architectural style: – A characteristic way of designing buildings, often associated with a particular historical period or region.
Example: The house boasted a charming colonial architectural style with a wide veranda.
Contemporary design: – A modern and current style of design, often characterised by clean lines, open spaces, and minimalist aesthetics.
Example: It was a showcase of contemporary design, with sleek furniture and large glass panels.
Rustic charm: – An appealing quality associated with the countryside; simple, unsophisticated, yet beautiful.
Example: The cottage had a delightful rustic charm, blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings.
Elegant: – Graceful and stylish in appearance or manner.
Example: Every room was decorated with an elegant touch, featuring classic furnishings.
Spacious: – (Especially of a room or building) having ample space.
Example: The living area was incredibly spacious, with high ceilings and an open-plan layout.
Cosy: – Giving a feeling of comfort, warmth, and relaxation.
Example: Despite its size, the reading nook created a wonderfully cosy atmosphere.
Well-maintained: – Kept in good condition.
Example: It was evident that the house was meticulously well-maintained, both inside and out.
Impeccable interior: – The faultless or perfect inside appearance or design of a building.
Example: The impeccable interior design showcased a perfect blend of modern and traditional elements.
Manicured garden: – A garden that is neatly trimmed and well-cared for.
Example: The house was surrounded by a beautifully manicured garden with blooming flowers.
Inviting ambience: – A welcoming and pleasant atmosphere.
Example: The soft lighting and comfortable furnishings created a very inviting ambience.
Panoramic views: – An unbroken view of an entire surrounding area.
Example: From the balcony, there were stunning panoramic views of the coastline.
Thoughtfully designed: – Created with careful consideration and purpose.
Example: Every corner of the home felt thoughtfully designed, reflecting the owner's taste.
Aesthetic appeal: – The pleasing, beautiful, or artistic quality of something.
Example: Its overall aesthetic appeal was simply captivating, making it truly stand out.
Sense of tranquillity: – A feeling of calmness and peacefulness.
Example: The quiet location and natural light gave the entire house a sense of tranquillity.
Warm and welcoming: – Creating a friendly and pleasant atmosphere.
Example: Despite its grandeur, the house felt incredibly warm and welcoming.
Dream home: – A house that someone considers to be ideal or perfect.
Example: It truly embodied what I imagine a dream home to be.
If you prepare for the cue card topic "Describe a beautiful house/ home you have been to", you should be able to answer the following cue card topics as well:
1. Describe a memorable place you have been to.
2. Describe an unusual place you have ever visited.
3. Describe a house or apartment someone you know lives in.
4. Describe your ideal home or place to live in.
5. Describe a beautiful house you have seen.
6. Describe an interesting place you know about or have been to.
7. Describe a place far away from the locality.
8. Describe a memorable trip you have had.
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