Cue Cards Samples with band 8 answers
When you received an unexpected gift - Cue Card # 741
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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 you received an unexpected gift.
You should say:
- when it was
- who gave it to you
- what gift item it was
and explain why it was an unexpected gift.
[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:
I've always enjoyed receiving gifts, and I still do. On some occasions, like on a birthday, I know that I'd get some gifts, but on some rare occasions, I am completely clueless about receiving a gift item. Thank you for this interesting topic, and it reminds me of an occasion when I got a long-desired gift totally unexpectedly. Since it happened when I was just 10 years old, it took me by surprise, and I was so happy that my brain saved it in its special memory cells!
Back then, when I was around 9 years old, almost all of my playmates had a bicycle. I could ride a bicycle, and I was pretty passionate about it, but I did not have one. I asked my parents to purchase me a gorgeous-looking bicycle, but they were not interested at all. So at a time, when I turned 10, I slowly abandoned my hope of owning a bicycle - ever.
Then one morning, I found a great-looking bicycle at our house which my mother told me was mine! I couldn't believe what I heard and saw! But that was it! I was officially the owner of a splendid-looking, latest-model bicycle.
My father purchased that bicycle for me. I later learned that my parents were a bit too worried about my safety, and that's why they waited for me to be at least 10 years old to have my own bicycle.
This was a totally unexpected gift because I had no clue that my parents would eventually agree to buy me a bicycle. I was not even told beforehand about their plan, as they wanted to surprise me. It was also unexpected because I was given a bicycle just when I had abandoned all hope of getting one.
Model Answer 2:
Introduction:
For this wonderful topic, I'd like to share a heartwarming experience that left an indelible mark on me - the time when I received an unexpected gift.
When it was:
It happened on my birthday a couple of years ago. Birthdays, for me, had become relatively low-key affairs, and I hadn't expected anything out of the ordinary.
Who gave it to you:
To my surprise, my childhood friend, whom I hadn't met in years, showed up at my doorstep. We had lost touch due to life's various twists and turns, so her unexpected presence was a gift in itself.
What gift item it was:
She handed me a beautifully wrapped package. Upon opening it, I found a vintage watch inside. It was a classic timepiece that exuded elegance and craftsmanship. The thoughtful choice of the gift struck me deeply.
And explain why it was an unexpected gift:
What made it truly unexpected was the fact that my friend remembered a passing comment I made about my fondness for vintage items years ago. She went out of her way to find something meaningful and nostalgic, transforming a simple birthday into a memorable reunion.
Receiving this unexpected gift wasn't just about the material item, but the effort and consideration behind it. It symbolised the enduring nature of our friendship and the significance of shared memories.
Idea generation for this Candidate task card/ Cue card topic:
Receiving an unexpected gift can be a delightful experience, as it shows thoughtfulness and surprise. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a kind gesture, these moments often stay with us. Here are 10 ideas for describing a time when you may receive an unexpected gift:
1. Surprise birthday gift from a friend:
I received an unexpected gift for my birthday last year. My best friend surprised me with a beautiful wristwatch. I was not expecting anything because we had agreed to keep it low-key this year. I was thrilled because the watch was something I had admired for a long time but hadn’t bought for myself. It was unexpected because I had no clue she had noticed my interest in it.
2. Random gift from a colleague:
I received an unexpected gift from a colleague at work last Christmas. She gave me a book I had mentioned in passing months ago. It was unexpected because we hadn’t discussed exchanging gifts, and I wasn’t expecting anything from her. The gift was meaningful because it showed she had listened to our earlier conversation and remembered my interests.
3. Handwritten letter from a family member:
One day, I received an unexpected letter from my aunt, who lives abroad. It was a handwritten letter accompanied by a small, sentimental piece of jewellery. It was unexpected because she hadn’t mentioned sending anything, and the letter was filled with personal stories and heartfelt words. I felt touched by her thoughtful gesture, and it made me feel connected to her even though we were far apart.
4. Surprise gift from a significant other:
A few months ago, I received a surprise gift from my partner, just because. He gave me a personalised leather journal, knowing that I had been wanting one to organise my thoughts and plans. It was unexpected because there was no special occasion, and the gift showed how well he knew my interests. I felt deeply appreciated and loved by this thoughtful surprise.
5. Unplanned gift from a neighbour:
One time, I received an unexpected gift from a neighbour. She gave me a potted plant to brighten up my home. I hadn’t asked for it, nor was it a special occasion, but she noticed that my garden was looking a little bare. The gift was unexpected but so thoughtful, and it brightened up my living space. It was a simple gesture that meant a lot to me.
6. Unexpected gift from a teacher:
When I graduated, I received an unexpected gift from my favourite teacher - a framed photograph of my class. It was a surprise because I hadn’t anticipated receiving anything from him. The picture was a beautiful reminder of our time together, and I felt honoured and grateful for such a personal and meaningful gift.
7. Surprise holiday gift from a friend:
I received an unexpected gift during the holiday season from a close friend. She gave me a set of handmade candles, which I had never expected. I didn’t even know she had been working on making them herself. The unexpected part was that she had spent so much time and effort on something so personal and unique. It made me feel special and valued.
8. Unexpected wedding gift:
At a wedding, I received an unexpected gift from a distant relative -a beautifully crafted photo frame. The surprise was that it wasn’t something from the registry, and I had no idea it was coming. It was a thoughtful gift because it was a reminder to cherish the memories of the wedding day, and it was completely unexpected but perfect for the occasion.
9. Surprise gift from a mentor:
Not long ago, I received an unexpected gift from my mentor - a signed copy of a book that had inspired him in his career. The gift was unexpected because I didn’t expect anything from him, as he had already been so generous with his advice and guidance. I appreciated the thoughtfulness, as it was a personal and meaningful gift that I will cherish.
10. Unexpected travel souvenir:
One time, I received an unexpected souvenir from a friend who was travelling abroad. She brought me a hand-carved sculpture from an artisan market. It was a complete surprise, as I hadn’t even expected her to think of me during her trip. The gift was unexpected, but it showed how much she valued our friendship, and it reminded me of how thoughtful and considerate she is.
Vocabulary for this Candidate task card/ Cue card topic:
When describing an unexpected gift, using expressive vocabulary can effectively convey the element of surprise, the thoughtful nature of the giver, and your personal delight. Thoughtful word choices will help you articulate the circumstances surrounding the gift and your emotional response, making your description more vivid and engaging. Here are some relevant words and phrases:
Serendipitous: – Occurring or discovered by chance in a happy or beneficial way.
Example: It was a truly serendipitous moment when I received the gift.
Gratifying: – Giving pleasure or satisfaction.
Example: The unexpected gift was incredibly gratifying, especially at that time.
Caught me off guard: – Surprised me; unprepared for something.
Example: The timing of the gift really caught me off guard, but in a good way.
A pleasant surprise: – Something good that happens unexpectedly.
Example: Receiving the old book was a truly pleasant surprise.
Out of the blue: – Happening unexpectedly and without warning.
Example: The present arrived completely out of the blue, making it even more special.
A thoughtful gesture: – An act of kindness or consideration.
Example: It was a very thoughtful gesture that I deeply appreciated.
Overwhelmed with joy: – Feeling a very strong emotion of happiness.
Example: I was absolutely overwhelmed with joy when I saw what it was.
Felt truly touched: – Was deeply moved emotionally by the act of kindness.
Example: I felt truly touched by their generosity and consideration.
Beyond my expectations: – Much better or more than what I had anticipated.
Example: The gift was beyond my expectations, both in terms of thought and value.
Made my day: – Made me feel very happy.
Example: That unexpected present absolutely made my day.
A delightful shock: – A surprising and very pleasing experience.
Example: Opening the package was a delightful shock I won't soon forget.
A demonstration of care: – An action that shows concern or affection for someone.
Example: It felt like a genuine demonstration of care and friendship.
Truly made an impression: – Had a significant and lasting effect on me.
Example: The unexpected nature of the gift truly made an impression on me.
If you prepare for the topic "Describe a time when you received an unexpected gift", you should be able to talk about the following topics as well:
1) Describe something you once received for free.
2) Describe a gift you received on your birthday.
3) Describe a gift or present that you gave to someone.
4) Describe a surprising event that made you happy.
5) Describe a gift you would like to buy for a friend.
6) Describe an expensive gift that you once received.
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