Cue Cards Samples with band 8 answers
When the internet helped you solve a problem - Cue Card # 735
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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 time when the internet helped you solve a problem.
You should say:
- when it was
- what problem you faced
- how the internet helped you solve the problem
and explain how you felt about 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:
Introduction:
In the fast-paced digital era, the internet has become an indispensable tool, and one instance where it proved instrumental in solving a problem stands out vividly in my memory. For this interesting topic, I'd like to talk about a time when the Internet helped me solve a critical problem.
When it was:
This incident occurred last year when I encountered a perplexing issue with my laptop, which was disrupting my ability to work efficiently.
What problem you faced:
The problem was related to a sudden and unexplained slowdown in my laptop's performance. As someone who heavily relies on their laptop for work, this hindrance was not only frustrating but also hampered my productivity significantly.
How the Internet helped you solve the problem:
Turning to the internet for a solution, I began researching the symptoms and potential causes of my laptop's sluggish behaviour. I stumbled upon various forums and tech support websites where individuals shared similar experiences and troubleshooting steps. Guided by the collective wisdom of the online community, I identified that the issue could be related to software conflicts and outdated drivers.
Further, I found step-by-step tutorials and video guides on the internet, illustrating how to update drivers and resolve software conflicts. Armed with this newfound knowledge, I navigated through the guidelines and steps and successfully implemented the suggested solutions.
And explain how you felt about it:
The feeling of resolving the issue independently, thanks to the internet's vast resources, was empowering. It not only saved me the hassle and cost of seeking professional help but also bolstered my confidence in troubleshooting technical challenges. This experience reinforced the transformative power of the internet in turning obstacles into opportunities for learning and self-sufficiency.
Model Answer 2:
Thank you for this interesting topic, and I will go ahead and talk about a time when the internet helped me solve a problem.
It was about a couple of years ago when I went to visit my only aunt in a city, of which I had a very limited idea. And it was so because it was only the second time that I visited the city. The first time, I visited it, was almost 7 or 8 years ago when things looked a bit different in that very crowded and big city. For example, the streets got wider and many new shops and buildings were built.
Besides, some of the businesses and shops moved to new locations as well which I had no idea about. Of course, none of these would create any problems for me unless my aunt had asked me to buy her medicine from a particular pharmacy. Incidentally, she was an asthma patient, and she used an inhaler of a certain foreign brand which only a certain pharmacy in the city used to keep. I knew where the pharmacy was located, or at least so I had thought, because I had visited the shop the last time when I went to see my aunt.
Nonetheless, when I actually went to that location, I found out that the pharmacy had moved to a new location. I asked a few people there, but unfortunately, nobody could tell me about it. Seeing no other options, I decided to get the help of the internet on my smartphone even though I was a bit sceptical about it. But, luckily, as soon as I searched the pharmacy by its name on my phone, it did give me its address and direction.
Anyway, after finding the location of the pharmacy, I breathed a sigh of relief. After all, I didn’t want my aunt to suffer because of my failure to find a pharmacy and buy her medicine. Besides, I felt a bit more confident and bold in roaming around the city since I had the help of the internet.
Idea generation for this Candidate task card/ Cue card topic:
The internet is a powerful tool that helps solve a wide range of problems, from finding information to troubleshooting issues or even making purchases. It has become an essential part of daily life. This cue card asks you to describe a time when the internet helped you solve a problem. To make your answer great, explain the specific issue you faced, how the internet was used to resolve it, and how it made you feel. Here are 10 ideas to help you structure your response:
1. Fixing a technical issue with my computer:
One time, I faced a technical issue with my laptop, where the operating system wasn’t booting up. I used the internet to search for troubleshooting guides and found a solution involving a system restore. I followed the steps outlined in an online forum, and it worked. I felt relieved and grateful because I was able to solve the issue without having to take my laptop to a technician.
2. Learning how to cook a new recipe:
A few months ago, I decided to try cooking a complicated dish I had never made before. I searched for recipes and tutorial videos on YouTube. The internet provided detailed instructions, tips, and even cooking demonstrations. I felt accomplished and satisfied when I successfully made the dish, and I was happy that I could learn new skills through online resources.
3. Solving a programming issue:
As a software developer, I often encounter bugs or issues in my code. On one occasion, I was stuck with an error in my code that I couldn’t figure out. I used online resources like Stack Overflow to search for similar problems and find potential solutions. The internet helped me troubleshoot and fix the error, and I felt proud of myself for solving the problem with the help of online coding communities.
4. Planning a trip:
Last year, I had to plan a trip to a new city. The internet was essential in helping me solve the problem of finding the best flights, accommodations, and local attractions. I used travel websites and apps to compare prices and read reviews, which helped me make informed decisions. I felt confident about the trip, knowing I had all the necessary information to have a smooth and enjoyable experience.
5. Finding a solution to a home repair issue:
One time, I had a plumbing issue at home, and I wasn’t sure how to fix it. I turned to YouTube and other online platforms to find tutorials and guides on how to fix the problem. After watching a few videos, I followed the steps and successfully repaired the leak. I felt proud of myself for being able to solve the problem on my own and save money on hiring a professional.
6. Researching a health-related question:
A few months ago, I had a health-related question about a symptom I was experiencing. I searched for medical information on trusted websites, such as WebMD and Mayo Clinic. The internet helped me understand the possible causes and remedies for the issue. I felt reassured and informed after finding helpful information, although I still consulted with my doctor to be certain.
7. Resolving an issue with an online purchase:
Recently, I bought a product online, but it arrived damaged. I used the internet to find the retailer’s customer service page and submitted a complaint. The website provided clear instructions on how to get a replacement, and the problem was resolved quickly. I felt relieved and appreciated how easy it was to handle the situation thanks to the internet.
8. Learning a new language:
I’ve always wanted to learn a new language, so I turned to the internet to find resources, apps, and online courses. The internet provided a wealth of information, including free courses, language exchange partners, and grammar tips. I felt motivated and excited as I started learning the new language and could see progress through the online lessons.
9. Getting a solution for a legal issue:
At one point, I had a legal question regarding a contract I was about to sign. I used the internet to find articles, legal advice forums, and even consulted a lawyer online. I felt more confident about proceeding with the contract after doing this research, and it helped me make an informed decision.
10. Solving a financial problem:
There was a time when I had to create a budget and manage my finances more effectively. The internet provided numerous budgeting tools and financial planning websites. I used online calculators to track my expenses and set savings goals. I felt empowered and in control of my finances after utilising the information available on the internet.
Vocabulary for this Candidate task card/ Cue card topic:
When describing how the internet helped you solve a problem, using precise vocabulary can effectively convey the nature of the challenge, the digital tools you utilised, and your feelings about the resolution. Thoughtful word choices will help you articulate the efficiency and broad utility of online resources, enhancing your response for the examiner. Here are some relevant words and phrases:
Resourceful: – Having the ability to find quick and clever ways to overcome difficulties.
Example: I had to be resourceful and turn to online solutions to find a solution.
Invaluable: – Extremely useful; indispensable.
Example: The internet proved to be an invaluable tool in that particular situation.
Vast repository of information: – An extremely large collection or storage place of data or knowledge.
Example: I accessed the internet's vast repository of information to find answers.
Step-by-step tutorial: – A detailed guide that explains how to do something in a sequence of stages.
Example: A clear step-by-step tutorial video walked me through the entire process.
Instant access to expertise: – The ability to immediately obtain knowledge or skill from specialists.
Example: The internet provided instant access to expertise I couldn't find elsewhere.
Navigating complex issues: – Successfully dealing with complicated or difficult problems.
Example: The internet was essential for navigating complex issues that arose during my project.
Felt immense satisfaction: – Experienced a very great feeling of pleasure or contentment.
Example: The successful resolution brought me immense satisfaction.
Empowered by knowledge: – Feeling stronger and more confident due to having information or understanding.
Example: I felt truly empowered by the knowledge I gained online.
Leveraged online resources: – Used available internet tools or information to maximum advantage.
Example: I effectively leveraged online resources to overcome what initially seemed like an insurmountable problem.
If you prepare for the topic "Describe a time when the internet helped you solve a problem", you should be able to talk about the following topics as well:
1) Describe a website you use that helps you a lot.
2) Describe a useful website you often visit.
3) Describe a time when you used your smartphone to do something important.
4) Describe a time when you started using a new technology.
5) Describe a situation when someone suggested a clever solution.
6) Describe something you did that was new or exciting.
Interestingly, the other day, I noticed that my mobile phone had far less balance than the amount I recharged just a few minutes ago. I was very confused. A couple of days later, I noticed the same incident. It was so frustrating and it was costing me money.
So, I decided to search for the similar problems that others might have faced and luckily I found a couple of online forums where people were discussing the exact same problem that I had been facing.
I read through a few answers and discussions and found that I somehow activated a couple of VAS [Value Added Service] on my mobile phone. The instructions for deactivating and cancelling those services were also given there. I followed the instructions and my problem was solved once and for all.
I felt so grateful to Tim Berners-Lee for inventing the World Wide Web that helps us in many tremendous and excellent ways. I believe this is the best invention the modern world has ever produced.
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