Cue Cards Samples with band 8 answers
Something important you have learned recently - Cue Card # 708
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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 important you have learned recently.
You should say:
- what you have learned
- where you learned it from
- how important it is
and explain how it might help you.
[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:
We, as humans, constantly learn, and this knowledge and our life experiences shape who we become or choose to become. Recently, I learned about something called "minimalism" from a TV documentary, and it was entertaining, educative and thought-provoking. I'd like to thank you for the opportunity you have given me to talk about what I learned from it.
I have learned that "minimalism" is not about becoming a hermit in a jungle or giving away everything we have. Rather it's a concept that allows us to focus on more important aspects of life by breaking the chain of gaining and owing more and more. Statistically speaking, we are living in a rich era of affluence and prosperity, and yet we are slaves to our desire for material gain and success that seems unattainable due to our changing goals and social pressure. We are living lives defined by capitalism and the corporate world and have little time to focus on what is truly important in our lives like our family and friends, neighbours, relationships, peace and happiness. "Minimalism" thus tells us to get rid of things we do not need like three smartphones, 30 pairs of shoes and a closet full of designer clothes, and focus on what makes us happy.
I learned it from a TV documentary that I watched a few weeks ago and it was a top-class production. The way it was presented, the speakers who talked about it, and the way it was made are simply outstanding.
I think the concept of minimalism is quite important to everybody and not just me. It teaches us to be happy by focusing on what truly matters, and not gaining "things" that become an obsession.
The impact of the concept on me is tremendous, and I truly believe it will help me greatly. I no longer feel bad because I don't own the latest car or don't earn a six-figure salary. I have been thinking about the messages this documentary tried to give us, and it was astounding. I have started focusing on being happier and spending quality time with people I care about, and people who care about me rather than feeling bad about all the things I don't have. Minimalism teaches about being happier with less because it's always quality that counts, not quantity.
Model Answer 2:
I have a habit of reading different kinds of health journals, and other books that are related to medical and healthcare information. So, the other day, when I found an international journal on herbal medicines, I naturally became curious and started to read it. Needless to say, from it I learned many things about the use and benefits of different kinds of plants and herbal medicines like "mushrooms".
Anyway, talking about the benefits of mushrooms and their importance, I already had some idea that mushroom was used as some sort of medicine, but I didn’t know what kinds of illnesses they are used to treat or how useful they are in treating those illnesses. But, reading that journal on herbal medicines opened my eyes like never before. For example, I didn’t know that mushrooms are very much antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral in nature. In other words, they help ward off all kinds of viruses, bacterial infections and bad fungal overgrowths way more effectively than many medicines. In this regard, the things that I have learned have inspired me to eat this healthy food whenever possible.
By the way, I find it really surprising that the modern-day “allopathic” treatment doesn’t really go far enough to recognise the benefits of mushrooms or, for that matter, other herbal medicines in treating virus-born or bacterial diseases, especially, when it has miserably failed to treat these illnesses on its own.
Anyway, I found this “mini-lesson” session with the herbal medicine journal to be really important and useful because they will go a long way, as far as I am concerned, to help me reap the benefits of herbal medicines. In fact, now that I know that these herbal medicines help us heal naturally, stabilize our metabolism and hormones, and strengthen our immune system while having very few unintended side effects, I can sure use them to heal me on a regular basis. Besides, I also firmly believe that more research works should be conducted to find out the more natural healing power of these herbal medicines, and the sooner we do it, the better it will be for the well-being of humanity.
Model Answer 3:
What you have learned:
Thank you very much for this nice topic. Recently, I've learned a significant skill that has transformed my independence and opened up new avenues of mobility: I learned how to drive a car. Although I am 20 years old now, I did not know how to drive a car just a few months ago. I am so glad that I have recently learned this skill.
Where you learned it from:
I took driving lessons from a certified driving instructor at a renowned driving school in my city. The instructor provided comprehensive guidance, teaching me the intricacies of vehicle control, road etiquette, and defensive driving techniques. My learning phase was excellent as I learned it fairly quickly, and I enjoyed learning it.
How important it is:
I would say this skill has transformed the way I used to travel and do many daily activities. The ability to drive is undeniably crucial in today's fast-paced world. It grants me the freedom to commute independently, explore new destinations, and seize opportunities that may have been inaccessible without personal transportation. Moreover, knowing how to drive facilitates daily tasks, such as running errands or attending appointments.
And explain how it might help you:
Learning to drive has had a profound impact on me and I believe it will keep helping me for the rest of my life. It has instilled in me a sense of responsibility, as I am now entrusted with the safety of myself and others on the road. Additionally, I feel that driving is interesting and sometimes therapeutic for my mind. Whenever I feel a little bit stressed out, I take my car and drive through the beach and that refreshes my mind.
So I would say that acquiring the ability to drive has been a transformative journey, equipping me with invaluable skills and shaping my perspective on independence, responsibility, and personal growth, and it will be immensely helpful in the coming days.
Idea generation for this Candidate task card/ Cue card topic:
This topic asks you to talk about something important you have learned recently. You should describe what it is, where or how you learned it, why it is important, and how this knowledge or skill might benefit you in the future. To make your response strong, explain the context of learning, its relevance to your personal or professional life, and what difference it could make going forward. Here are a few ideas to help you structure your response. We hope this section proves helpful.
1. Basic financial literacy:
Recently, I learned how to manage personal finances, including budgeting, saving, and investing. I came across this knowledge through a free online course offered by a local bank. This topic is incredibly important because I used to overspend and struggle with money management. Learning this has helped me avoid unnecessary expenses and plan for the future, and I believe it will contribute to my long-term financial stability.
2. Time management techniques:
I recently started following a productivity YouTube channel that taught me how to prioritise tasks using the Eisenhower Matrix. Before this, I often felt overwhelmed with everything on my plate. Understanding how to categorise and schedule tasks has improved my efficiency and lowered my stress levels. This skill is helping me balance my academic workload and part-time job better than before.
3. The importance of sleep:
Through a podcast I listened to recently, I learned about how sleep affects memory, mood, and overall health. I used to sacrifice sleep for study or leisure, thinking it was harmless. But now I know that poor sleep weakens concentration and immunity. Since then, I’ve made an effort to sleep at least seven hours a night, and I feel more energetic and focused throughout the day.
4. How to cook healthy meals:
A few weeks ago, I learned how to prepare some simple, healthy meals by watching cooking tutorials on Instagram. This was important to me because I used to rely on processed or takeout food, which wasn’t ideal. Being able to cook allows me to eat better and save money, and it has given me a sense of independence and confidence in the kitchen.
5. Basic first aid skills:
I took part in a community health workshop recently and learned how to perform CPR and deal with minor injuries. This is extremely important knowledge because emergencies can happen anywhere. Having the confidence to help someone during an accident or medical issue could potentially save a life, which gives me peace of mind.
6. Emotional intelligence and self-awareness:
After reading a self-help book, I realised the importance of understanding and managing my emotions. I used to respond to criticism poorly or feel overwhelmed easily. Now, I try to pause, reflect, and stay composed in difficult situations. This learning has improved my relationships and made me more mindful in my daily life.
7. Cybersecurity basics:
I recently attended a seminar at my university on online safety. I learned about using strong passwords, two-factor authentication, and avoiding phishing emails. In this digital age, protecting personal data is essential, and this knowledge has made me more cautious while browsing or using social platforms. It might save me from identity theft or financial loss in the future.
8. Public speaking strategies:
I joined a speaking club recently and learned about voice modulation, body language, and structuring a speech. This knowledge is valuable for my academic presentations and future career. Earlier, I used to feel nervous and avoid public speaking. Now, I feel more confident and organised when speaking in front of a group.
9. Importance of mental health:
From an article I read on a health website, I learned how regular mindfulness and talking about emotions can prevent mental burnout. Previously, I ignored stress symptoms, thinking they would go away on their own. Understanding the value of mental health has helped me adopt healthier habits and become more empathetic toward others.
10. Cultural sensitivity:
Through an online diversity workshop at work, I learned the importance of being respectful towards people from different backgrounds. We often take our own cultural norms for granted, but recognising and appreciating differences creates a more inclusive environment. This learning has helped me communicate more thoughtfully, especially in group settings.
11. Basics of graphic design:
I recently explored Canva and learned how to create appealing visuals for presentations and social media. This was something I had always wanted to try but found intimidating. Now I can design my own posters, resumes, and event flyers. This creative skill is helping me in both academic and personal projects, and may even open up freelance opportunities.
Vocabulary for this Candidate task card/ Cue card topic:
When describing something important you've learned recently, using precise vocabulary can effectively convey the nature of the knowledge, its source, and its significance for your future. Thoughtful word choices will help you articulate the impact of this learning and its potential benefits, making your response both informative and forward-looking. Here are some relevant words and phrases:
Insight: – The capacity to gain an accurate and deep understanding of someone or something.
Example: I gained a crucial insight into effective communication strategies.
Competence: – The ability to do something successfully or efficiently.
Example: This new skill has significantly enhanced my professional competence.
Invaluable knowledge: – Extremely useful and important information or understanding.
Example: I acquired invaluable knowledge about sustainable business practices.
Broadened my perspective: – Widened my understanding or way of looking at things.
Example: Learning about different cultures truly broadened my perspective on global issues.
Equipped me with: – Provided me with the necessary skills or tools for a particular purpose.
Example: This course equipped me with the skills needed to manage complex projects.
A steep learning curve: – A situation in which a lot has to be learned in a short period of time.
Example: While it involved a steep learning curve, the rewards have been immense.
Crucial for future endeavours: – Extremely important for upcoming projects or undertakings.
Example: This learning is crucial for my future endeavours in entrepreneurship.
Opened new opportunities: – Created new chances or possibilities for progress.
Example: The skill I gained has already opened new opportunities for me.
A profound impact: – A significant and lasting effect.
Example: This recent learning has had a profound impact on my approach to problem-solving.
Stay ahead of the curve: – To be more advanced than the competition or the general trend.
Example: This knowledge will help me stay ahead of the curve in a rapidly evolving industry.
If you prepare for the topic "Describe something important you have learned recently", you should be able to talk about the following topics as well:
1) Describe something you have learned recently from the Internet.
2) Describe something important you want to learn in the near future.
3) Describe a skill you have that is important to you.
4) Describe something you did that was new or exciting.
5) Describe a practical skill that you have learned.
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