Cue Cards Samples with band 8 answers
A place where you like to study- Cue Card # 666
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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 place where you like to study (either indoors or outdoors).
You should say:
- where it is
- when you study there
- what you study there
and explain why you like to study there.
[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:
Do I like to study indoors or outdoors? Well, that depends on what I am studying, and how difficult is the reading materials. But, if I am asked to pick one, I would certainly go with “indoors”, which means either it has to be in a room or a library. This time, I will go with a library – a public library that is where I like to study often.
My favourite public library is not really very far from where I live. Conveniently located in the centre of my hometown, it is only about a 10-minute drive from my home if riding in a car. Being considered one of the largest libraries in my country with a huge - I mean really “huge” - collection of books, you can pretty much read anything and everything there. But, for me, it is all about research work, as a post-graduate student, for my chemistry thesis paper. I go there to study mostly during the evening times since it is a lot less crowded during that period.
I like to study in our public library mainly because I get to study a lot of materials there when I am really in a “mood”. But, when I become a bit exhausted after studying chemistry and its formulas, I can easily read other kinds of materials whether it is a newspaper or journal. I can even watch some educational movies! I like to study there also because it offers a great research environment with almost no distractions to deal with. In fact, the library has a separate research corner for research students like us.
Finally, I go to study there also because I become a bit more motivated and inspired after seeing so many students studying around me. So, I guess it is fair to say that my library is very much like a trusted study partner which is always there for me when I need it.
Model Answer 2:
Well, one of my favourite places to study is a cosy café nestled in the heart of the city where I live, providing a perfect blend of tranquillity and ambience conducive to focused learning. In fact, I have studied several novels at that very cafe and whenever I think of reading for pleasure, this cafe comes to my mind.
The café, named "Serenity Brews," is situated on a quaint street corner, adorned with lush greenery and charming outdoor seating, creating a serene environment away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
I often find myself studying at Serenity Brews during the late afternoons or early evenings, usually on weekends when I have ample time to delve into my academic pursuits without any distractions.
At Serenity Brews, I dedicate my study sessions to various academic subjects, ranging from literature and history to mathematics and science. Whether I'm poring over textbooks, reviewing lecture notes, or working on assignments, the tranquil ambience of the café allows me to immerse myself fully in my studies.
There are several reasons why I find Serenity Brews to be an ideal study spot. Firstly, the café exudes a calming atmosphere, with soft instrumental music playing in the background and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting through the air, creating the perfect backdrop for focused learning. Additionally, the café's comfortable seating arrangements and ample natural light streaming in through large windows provide a conducive environment for concentration. Moreover, the presence of other studious individuals engrossed in their work serves as a source of motivation and encourages productivity.
Idea generation for this Candidate task card/ Cue card topic:
This Candidate Task Card topic asks you to describe a place where you enjoy studying. It can be either indoors or outdoors- you pick your place. You should talk about the location of the place, when you usually go there to study, what kind of subjects or materials you study there, and most importantly, why you prefer this place over others. Try to include the atmosphere, comfort, availability of resources, or any emotional connection to make your answer more complete. Here are a few ideas to help you develop your own response:
1. My bedroom study corner:
I’ve set up a small study area in the corner of my bedroom. It has a desk, a comfortable chair, good lighting system, and my study materials neatly organised. I usually study there in the evenings or at night. I like it because it's quiet and private, and I can focus without distractions.
2. Local library reading room:
There’s a public library near my home with a designated silent reading area. I go there mostly in the afternoons to study academic materials and prepare for exams. The peaceful environment, access to reference books, and the absence of noise help me stay productive.
3. University campus garden:
I often study in the garden area of my university campus, especially during the spring. I take my notes and sit under a tree or on a bench. The fresh air, greenery, and sunlight help me stay refreshed and make learning feel more enjoyable.
4. Rooftop of my house:
In the early morning or late evening, I like studying on the rooftop of my house. It's open, breezy, and relatively calm. I take my textbooks or laptop and review topics for my exams. The change of scenery from indoor studying keeps me motivated.
5. A coffee shop near my college:
There’s a cosy coffee shop close to my college where I often go with my laptop and notes. I usually study there during the weekends or in between classes. The ambient music, the smell of coffee, and the buzzing yet calm environment make it a great spot to focus.
6. Study lounge in my dormitory:
My dormitory has a shared study lounge that is open 24/7. I go there at night when it's less crowded. The place has desks, Wi-Fi, and charging points. It helps me concentrate, and being surrounded by other students who are also studying keeps me motivated.
7. The city park:
Sometimes, I go to a city park with a notepad or tablet and revise or brainstorm ideas for my essays. I prefer early mornings or late afternoons when the park is less busy. The natural surroundings help clear my mind and boost my creativity.
8. Computer lab in my college:
I spend a lot of time in the computer lab for my IT and coding assignments. It’s equipped with high-speed internet and up-to-date software. I go there during lab hours or when I need to work on group projects. It’s a resource-rich environment for focused learning.
9. A friend’s home study room:
Occasionally, I go to my friend’s house, where they have a quiet and well-organised study room. We study together, especially before exams. The collaborative environment and mutual encouragement make it a great place to study.
10. My grandparents’ backyard:
During holidays, I visit my grandparents who live in a rural area. I love studying in their peaceful backyard. The birds chirping and the fresh breeze create a relaxing atmosphere that helps me read books and revise lessons without any pressure.
Vocabulary for this Candidate task card/ Cue card topic:
When describing your preferred study spot, using specific vocabulary can effectively convey its location, your study habits there, the subjects you focus on, and the reasons for its appeal. Thoughtful word choices will help you articulate the atmosphere and productivity it offers, making your response both informative and engaging. Here are some relevant words and phrases:
Conducive to learning: – Tending to produce or contribute to a favourable environment for acquiring knowledge.
Example: The quiet atmosphere of the library is highly conducive to learning.
Optimal environment: – The best or most favourable conditions for a particular purpose.
Example: For me, it's an optimal environment that maximizes my focus.
Tranquil: – Calm, peaceful, and undisturbed.
Example: I love studying in the park; its tranquil setting helps me concentrate.
Minimal distractions: – Very few things that draw attention away from the main activity.
Example: The biggest advantage is the minimal distractions, allowing deep work.
Enhanced focus: – Improved ability to concentrate intensely on something.
Example: This place truly provides enhanced focus, making study sessions more productive.
A sense of calm: – A feeling of peacefulness and absence of agitation.
Example: Being there always brings a sense of calm that helps me absorb information.
Invigorating: – Making one feel strong, healthy, and full of energy.
Example: Studying outdoors, the fresh air feels invigorating and keeps me alert.
Ambient noise: – Background sound that contributes to the atmosphere of a place.
Example: The gentle ambient noise of the cafe is surprisingly not distracting, but rather comforting.
Productivity soars: – Output or efficiency increases dramatically.
Example: When I study there, my productivity soars, and I get through tasks much faster.
Concentration levels peak: – The intensity of one's attention reaches its highest point.
Example: It's where my concentration levels peak, especially for complex subjects.
Uninterrupted flow: – A continuous and smooth progression without any breaks or interruptions.
Example: I can achieve an uninterrupted flow of work, which is essential for creative tasks.
A sanctuary for learning: – A safe and peaceful place dedicated to acquiring knowledge.
Example: This spot feels like a true sanctuary for learning, my personal academic refuge.
Mental clarity: – The state of having a clear and focused mind.
Example: The environment helps me achieve mental clarity, essential for problem-solving.
Escape the bustle: – To get away from the noisy and busy activity of a place.
Example: It's my perfect escape from the bustle of daily life, allowing me to dive into my studies.
If you prepare for the topic "Describe a place where you like to study (either indoors or outdoors)", you should be able to talk about the following topics as well:
1) Describe a place where you often go to.
2) Describe a place where you often like to spend some time.
3) Describe a place where you meet your friends.
4) Describe a quiet place you have been to.
5) Describe what you usually do in your leisure time.
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