Cue Cards Samples with band 8 answers
Describe a book you would like to write - Cue Card # 646
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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 book or story you would like to write in the future.
You should say:
- what kind of book or story it would be
- when you had the idea to write this book or story
- what are your plans to finish it
and explain why you were motivated to write this book or story.
[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:
After reading so much about the “so-called” LDC (least developed countries), the “developing countries” and the “developed countries” during my high school years, I have always wondered and asked myself as to what possibly could have caused such “inequalities”. My “curiosity” turned into my “concern” when I entered the university as a student of Business Administration almost 5 years ago. In fact, it was then that I decided to write a book on “man-made economic inequalities” after learning even more about it from the lecture of a notable economist in my country.
I plan to finish writing the book in the next 3 years as my busy life schedule wouldn’t exactly allow me to finish it any sooner. Besides, I need to conduct a lot of research work and studies to understand the difference between “man-made” causes and “natural” causes as far as economic inequality is concerned.
The book will also include a comprehensive comparison between the economic eras before the Industrial Revolution, stretching back to the period of the European Renaissance, and vice versa, after the Industrial Revolution. Finally, and most importantly, the book will try to propose some practical solutions to the catastrophic economic inequalities in our world which are getting only worse by every passing day.
I got motivated to write this book as I became really concerned about the ongoing economic exploitation of one group over the others in the disguise of a “crony” capitalism and the free-market economy. The world was supposed to be a better place with so many technological advancements and so-called economic growth, but, the situation is quite the opposite in reality.
In fact, I became even more determined to write the book after learning that almost 800 million people go to bed hungry every night while millions of tons of foods are getting wasted by the rich and powerful every day. Besides, I have always wanted to help the poor and needy. So, if my book is a success story, I could surely donate the profits that I would have made from the sales of my book. So, just wish me luck!
Model Answer 2:
Thank you so much for this interesting topic, which allows me to talk about a creative project I've been nurturing in my mind for some time now - a story I'm really eager to write in the future.
The kind of story it would be is a contemporary drama, very much focused on the intricate and often messy dynamics of human relationships. Specifically, it would delve into a profound story of friendship and betrayal, exploring how seemingly unbreakable bonds can fracture under pressure and unforeseen circumstances. It would examine the complexities of trust, loyalty, and the ripple effects when those are broken within a close-knit group.
The idea for this story really started to grow in my mind a couple of years ago. It wasn't one single "aha!" moment, but rather a gradual accumulation of observations from real-life experiences, both my own and those shared by people close to me. I've witnessed firsthand, or heard compelling accounts of, how deep friendships can evolve, face challenges, and sometimes, regrettably, unravel due to misunderstandings, personal failings, or external pressures.
As for my plans to finish it, I'm currently in the detailed outlining phase. I'm focusing on developing nuanced characters, crafting a convincing plot arc, and mapping out the key emotional turning points. My goal is to dedicate a consistent amount of time each day, even if it's just 30 minutes, to writing once the outline is solid. I plan to set small, achievable word count targets to maintain momentum. Ultimately, my hope is to complete a full manuscript that could potentially be published.
I'm incredibly motivated to write this story for several reasons. Firstly, the themes of friendship, loyalty, and betrayal reverberate deeply with me, as they are such universal human experiences. I believe that exploring these raw emotions on paper can be a cathartic process, not just for me as the writer, but potentially for readers who might have gone through similar situations. Secondly, I want to capture the subtle nuances of how relationships shift and change over time, and how even small decisions can lead to significant consequences. It’s an opportunity to delve into human psychology and morality.
Sample Answer 3:
To be honest, I've not given any serious thought about writing and publishing a book, even though the concept of different books popped up in my mind at different times in my life. So, I would like to thank you for this intriguing topic that helps me search in my memory and think again about a type of book that I had wanted to write if I ever get a chance.
Well, I can recall that a book I aspire to write is a science fiction novel set in a distant future where humanity has colonised multiple planets across the galaxy. The story follows a diverse group of interstellar explorers who embark on a perilous journey to uncover the truth behind a mysterious anomaly threatening the stability of the universe.
The idea for this book flared in my mind during my teenage years, fueled by my fascination with space exploration and the endless possibilities of the universe. As I delved deeper into the realms of science fiction literature and weighed the complexities of the universe, I felt compelled to create a narrative that would combine elements of adventure, intrigue, and philosophical exploration.
To bring this ambitious project to fruition, I guess I will have to outline a detailed plot, craft intricate character profiles, and conduct extensive research on scientific concepts and technological advancements that will shape the backdrop of the story. Additionally, I have to set specific writing goals and allocate dedicated time each day to work on the manuscript, aiming to achieve a completed draft within a realistic timeframe.
The motivation behind writing this book came from my deep fascination and imagination about university, planets, the vastness of the universe and a couple of books that I read from the same genre. I believe some of the books that I read back then had a profound impact on my mind, and I wanted to tell my story as well. Please wish me luck so that I can complete this book someday.
Idea generation for this Candidate task card/ Cue card topic:
This topic asks you to describe a book or story that you would like to write someday. To answer it well, you should explain what kind of book or story it would be, when the idea first came to your mind, how you plan to complete it, and what inspired or motivated you to think about writing it. A great response would include a clear genre or theme of the story, your connection to the topic, any past experience or event that sparked the idea, and why you think the story deserves to be told. You can also briefly mention your writing habits or dreams as a future author. Here are a few ideas to help you brainstorm for your response:
1. A novel about friendship during wartime:
I want to write a historical fiction novel that tells the story of two childhood friends who are separated during a war and meet again years later under unexpected circumstances. The idea came to me when I read about wartime letters in a museum. I’ve already drafted the plot outline and hope to start writing it next year. I'm motivated by the themes of loyalty, loss, and hope, which I believe resonate deeply with readers.
2. A children's fantasy adventure:
I've always loved reading magical tales as a child, so I’d like to write a fantasy story for children about a brave girl who can talk to animals and must save her enchanted village. I came up with the idea while babysitting my niece. I plan to write short chapters over the weekends and include hand-drawn illustrations. I want to inspire children to be kind, imaginative, and brave.
3. A travel memoir of solo backpacking in Asia:
This would be a non-fiction book based on my solo backpacking experiences across Asia. I thought of writing it after a three-month journey last year. I plan to use my travel journal entries to structure the story and aim to finish the first draft within six months. The goal is to share real-life lessons and the emotional growth that travel brings.
4. A sci-fi novel about time travel ethics:
My story idea is about a scientist who invents time travel but struggles with the moral consequences of using it to prevent disasters. The idea struck me after watching a documentary on technological advancements. I’m researching now and plan to write during my semester break. I want readers to think deeply about the impact of science on humanity.
5. A romantic drama based on real-life events:
I want to write a romantic novel inspired by the love story of my grandparents, who were separated during a political uprising. I’ve been gathering details from old letters and family stories. I aim to complete the manuscript within a year. The emotional depth and resilience in their relationship moved me so much that I feel it deserves to be shared.
6. A short story collection about modern city life:
This book would feature different characters from a fictional city, each facing a unique personal struggle. I had this idea while commuting and observing people around me. I plan to write one story per month and self-publish it online. I’m motivated by the complexity of urban life and how people carry untold stories within them.
7. A detective thriller set in my hometown:
My idea is to write a mystery novel where a retired teacher turns amateur detective to solve a crime in a quiet town. The inspiration came from an article about community investigators. I’ve outlined the main plot and characters already. Writing this story will let me blend suspense with nostalgia for my hometown.
8. A motivational book for teenagers:
I’d like to write a self-help book aimed at teenagers dealing with self-doubt and peer pressure. I had this idea during a school mentoring programme where many students opened up about their struggles. I plan to finish it during my gap year. I want to give young people tools to believe in themselves and stay resilient.
9. A horror novella based on folklore:
This story would draw from dark folklore in my region, involving a cursed village and supernatural elements. I got this idea after hearing a chilling tale from my grandfather. I'm planning to write it during the winter holidays. The mysterious atmosphere and cultural richness make it a story worth telling.
10. A comedy about student life:
My book would be a humorous take on the ups and downs of university life, filled with quirky characters and relatable situations. I got the idea while journaling my own funny experiences during my first year of college. I aim to finish it in parts over the semester. The goal is to make readers laugh and look back fondly on their youth.
11. An inspirational biography of an unsung hero:
I’d like to write about a local community worker who has helped hundreds of underprivileged children get an education. I met him during a volunteer project, and his humility and dedication amazed me. I want to finish interviews and research within six months. I hope the book will highlight real-life heroes who rarely get recognition.
Vocabulary for this Candidate task card/ Cue card topic:
When describing a book or story you wish to write, using precise vocabulary can effectively convey its genre, themes, your creative process, and the underlying motivations. Thoughtful word choices will help you articulate your literary aspirations and the potential impact of your work, making your response both imaginative and insightful. Here are some relevant words and phrases:
Genre: – A category of artistic composition, as in music or literature, characterised by similarities in form, style, or subject matter.
Example: I envision it as a historical fiction novel, blending real events with imagined characters.
Plot: – The main events of a play, novel, movie, or similar work, devised and presented by the writer as an interrelated sequence.
Example: The plot would revolve around a young inventor facing societal prejudices.
Characters: – The imaginary people (or animals) represented in a play, film, or story.
Example: I'd like to develop complex, multi-dimensional characters that resonate with readers.
Narrative: – A spoken or written account of connected events; a story.
Example: The narrative would shift between different perspectives to create suspense.
Theme: – The subject of a talk, a piece of writing, a person's thoughts, or an exhibition; a topic.
Example: A central theme of the story would be the enduring power of hope in adversity.
Manuscript: – A book, document, or piece of music written by hand rather than typed or printed.
Example: My ultimate goal is to complete the entire manuscript within the next two years.
Outline: – A general description or plan giving the essential features of something but not the details.
Example: I've already started creating a detailed outline for each chapter.
Drafting: – The process of writing the initial version of a document.
Example: The hardest part of the process for me is the initial drafting phase.
Revising: – Re-examining and making alterations to (written or printed matter).
Example: I know the revising stage will be crucial for refining the language and pacing.
Editor: – A person who is in charge of and determines the final content of a text (especially a newspaper or magazine) or prepares it for publication.
Example: I hope to eventually work with a professional editor to polish the work.
Publishing: – The business of producing and issuing books, newspapers, magazines, or music for sale or distribution.
Example: My dream is to see my book through to publishing.
Inspiration: – The process of being mentally stimulated to do or feel something, especially to do something creative.
Example: The inspiration for this story came from a vivid dream I had last year.
Passion project: – A project that someone is working on, often in their spare time, because they love the subject or activity, rather than for financial reward.
Example: This book is truly a passion project, something I feel compelled to create.
Evoke emotions: – To bring or recall a feeling, memory, or image to the conscious mind.
Example: I want the story to evoke strong emotions in readers, from laughter to tears.
Leave a legacy: – To leave something of value to future generations.
Example: Part of my motivation is the desire to leave a small literary legacy behind.
Creative outlet: – A way to express oneself through creative activities.
Example: Writing this book serves as a vital creative outlet for me.
If you prepare for the topic "Describe a book or story you would like to write in the future", you should be able to talk about the following topics as well:
1) Describe a book you want to read in the future.
2) Describe a book or story that has a positive influence on you.
3) Describe a kind of book you like reading.
4) Describe a book you have recently read and liked.
5) Describe a story you heard from someone that you really liked.
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