Cue Cards Samples with band 8 answers
Describe an academic course that impressed you a lot - Cue Card # 761
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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 an academic course that impressed you a lot.
You should say:
- what the course was about
- where you took the course
- what you did during the course
and explain why it impressed you a lot.
[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:
As a student of commerce, I can’t exactly claim to have taken that many courses which could have impressed me, perhaps because I wasn’t really so much of a bright student. But, categorically speaking, the psychology class, which I took as a second-year university student, was way different from other courses, especially, with regard to its content materials and substances. And yes, I have no hesitation to say that I was also very much impressed with it at a certain point.
Now, before taking this course as a university student, I had almost no or very little idea about “psychology” except that it was related to “arts’ or “social science”. In fact, I even told my course advisor the same thing (ie. I had no idea about “psychology” and so forth), but, in response, my course advisor just smiled and told me that I was going to find the subject interesting, nevertheless. And he was proven right for the most part.
So, anyway, as I started attending the class, I suddenly discovered that I needed to do a lot of reading and cover lots of materials within a rather short period of time, I started to feel like I was actually “cheated” by my course advisor. But then things started to become interesting slowly and slowly as our teacher helped us dive deep into the subject while also teaching us things like why we behave in a certain way or how the human mind and brain really work. However, things got even more interesting in the later part of the course when we, the students, were actually put in different groups to debate about the scientific methods that are usually employed to understand human behaviour.
In the end, I was indeed quite impressed with this particular course because it very much managed to explain many complicated aspects of human behaviour and human relations in such a detailed and eloquent manner. But, more importantly, this particular course has actually helped me become a better person by allowing me a better understanding of myself.
Model Answer 2:
Thank you a lot for this wonderful topic. During our academic years, we study various courses. Some of them are compulsory, while others are optional. In my case, I have attended several courses throughout my academic journey. However, there was one course that impressed me the most, and I still remember it vividly.
The academic course I'm talking about is called "Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management". I took this course during my final year of graduation from the University of London. The course was taught by a seasoned professor who had vast experience in the field of entrepreneurship. The duration of the course was one semester.
The course was designed to teach the basics of entrepreneurship, including identifying business opportunities, developing business plans, raising capital, and managing small businesses. During the course, we were assigned to develop our own business plans and pitch them to a panel of industry experts. We also had to conduct market research, analyse financial statements, and develop a marketing strategy. The course was challenging, and it required a lot of hard work and dedication.
The course impressed me a lot for several reasons. Firstly, it provided me with practical knowledge and skills that I could use in real life. Secondly, it was taught by a professor who had practical experience in the field of entrepreneurship, which made the course more insightful and relevant. Finally, the course gave me the opportunity to develop my own business plan, which was a valuable learning experience. The course helped me to build my confidence, and I learned that I could accomplish anything if I put my mind to it.
Sample Answer 3:
Introduction:
During my high school years, I had the opportunity to take an academic course that left a profound impression on me, and it was none other than "Physics". The subject of Physics has always fascinated me, and this particular course enhanced my understanding of the natural world and its underlying principles. I am so fascinated by this subject that I'm planning to take physics as my major in college.
What the course was about:
The Physics course I took in high school covered various fundamental concepts of the subject, such as mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, and optics. We delved into the laws of motion, the behaviour of light, and the study of energy and forces. The course aimed to provide students with a solid foundation in Physics and encouraged us to explore the practical applications of these principles in real-world scenarios.
Where you took the course:
I took this Physics course during my sophomore year in high school. Our school had well-equipped laboratories and experienced teachers, making it an ideal environment for learning and conducting experiments.
What you did during the course:
Throughout the course, we engaged in a variety of activities to deepen our understanding of Physics concepts. We conducted experiments to verify theoretical principles and understand their practical implications. I remember performing experiments with pendulums, inclined planes, and electrical circuits, which helped solidify the theoretical knowledge we had learned in the classroom.
And explain why it impressed you a lot:
This Physics course impressed me significantly for several reasons. Firstly, the teacher's passion for the subject was contagious. Their enthusiasm and dedication to teaching inspired us to develop a genuine interest in Physics. They encouraged us to question, explore, and think independently, which fostered a positive learning environment.
Moreover, the course introduced me to the wonders of the natural world and the elegance of scientific principles governing its phenomena. Understanding the laws of motion and the behaviour of light, for example, provided me with a new perspective on everyday occurrences.
Idea generation for this Candidate task card/ Cue card topic:
An academic course can leave a lasting impression when it offers new insights, challenges, and growth opportunities. Whether it’s a subject you are passionate about or one that pushes you out of your comfort zone, certain courses can truly shape your perspective and knowledge. Here are some ideas to help you describe an academic course that impressed you:
1. A creative writing course:
One of the most impactful academic courses I’ve taken was a creative writing course at my university. The course focused on narrative techniques, character development, and the art of storytelling. During the course, I had the opportunity to write short stories, poems, and essays, receiving feedback from both my peers and instructors. What impressed me the most was how the course not only improved my writing skills but also encouraged me to think more creatively and critically. It was an inspiring and transformative experience.
2. A psychology course:
I took an introductory psychology course during my first year of university, and it completely fascinated me. The course covered topics like cognitive psychology, behavioural science, and the different approaches to understanding the human mind. I was particularly interested in how psychological theories applied to real-life scenarios. During the course, we conducted experiments, analysed case studies, and discussed various theories. The course impressed me because it expanded my understanding of human behaviour and gave me valuable insights into my personal interactions.
3. A philosophy course:
Philosophy was a subject I never thought I would enjoy, but a course on ethics and morality really changed my view. The course was held at a local college and focused on the works of major philosophers like Socrates, Kant, and Nietzsche. We discussed deep moral questions about right and wrong, justice, and the meaning of life. The course impressed me because it challenged my way of thinking and pushed me to question many of the beliefs I had previously held. It was intellectually stimulating and gave me a fresh perspective on life and society.
4. A history course on ancient civilizations:
I took a history course on ancient civilizations at my university, where we studied the cultures, politics, and societal structures of ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, Greece, and Rome. The course involved a lot of research and field trips to museums and historical sites. What impressed me about the course was how it helped me connect historical events to modern-day issues, and I found myself more aware of the cultural heritage that shapes our present world. The immersive nature of the course, coupled with the real-world experiences, made it unforgettable.
5. A business management course:
One course that left a significant impact on me was a business management course that I took during my final year of university. It covered key aspects of business operations, including strategic planning, marketing, finance, and leadership. The course included group projects, presentations, and case studies, where we applied theoretical knowledge to real business scenarios. What impressed me the most was the practical nature of the course, which helped me gain skills that were directly applicable to my future career. It gave me the confidence to pursue a career in business and entrepreneurship.
6. A programming and software development course:
I took a programming and software development course that focused on learning coding languages such as Python and Java. During the course, I worked on developing my own software projects, debugging code, and collaborating with other students on larger projects. The course impressed me because it not only taught me valuable technical skills but also showed me how problem-solving plays a key role in coding. I was amazed at how much I could achieve by applying logical thinking to create functional programs. It solidified my passion for technology and software development.
7. A mathematics course on calculus:
I’ve always found math challenging, but a calculus course I took in university really impressed me. The course covered concepts such as limits, derivatives, and integrals, and it involved solving complex problems and applying mathematical formulas. What impressed me the most was how the course taught me to approach problems step by step and think logically to find solutions. It was a tough course, but the satisfaction I felt after solving difficult problems made the challenge worthwhile. It greatly improved my analytical thinking skills.
8. A language learning course (Spanish):
During my studies abroad, I enrolled in a Spanish language course to improve my speaking and writing skills. The course was interactive and immersive, focusing on practical conversation, grammar, and cultural nuances. What impressed me was how quickly I was able to progress by practising with native speakers and applying what I learned in real-life situations. The course not only improved my fluency but also deepened my understanding of Hispanic culture, which made the learning experience richer and more meaningful.
9. A digital marketing course:
As someone interested in the field of business and marketing, I took a digital marketing course that covered SEO, social media strategies, and online advertising. The course was hands-on, and we worked on creating digital marketing campaigns for real businesses. What impressed me most was how the course kept up with the latest trends and technologies in marketing. It provided me with a solid foundation in digital marketing, and I felt well-prepared to enter the workforce with new, valuable skills.
10. A photography course:
A photography course I took as a hobby really stood out to me. It taught me about different camera settings, composition techniques, and editing software. During the course, I worked on various assignments, including taking portraits, landscapes, and still-life photos. The course impressed me because it allowed me to develop a creative skill that I could apply in my personal life. It taught me how to capture moments artistically and express emotions through images, which I found incredibly rewarding.
Sample Answer 4:
I must express that I find this topic interesting, and for it, I'll tell you about an academic course that really stuck with me. It was actually an arts class I took back in high school. So, please allow me to tell more about it.
I think it was in my tenth grade, and it was just a general introductory art class. To be honest, I wasn't really expecting much from it at the beginning. I always thought I wasn't particularly artistic. But this course really opened my eyes.
During the course, we did all sorts of things. We started with basic drawing techniques, learning about perspective and shading. Then we moved on to painting with different mediums like watercolours and acrylics. We even dabbled in some basic sculpting with clay. What I really liked was that it wasn't just about following instructions. The teacher, Ms. Sneha, had really encouraged us to experiment and find our own style. She'd give us a theme or a technique, and then let us interpret it in our own way. We also spent time looking at and discussing different artists and art movements throughout history, which gave a really good context to what we were doing.
Now, why did it impress me so much? Well, to begin with, it helped me discover a creative side of myself that I didn't even know existed. I was actually surprised at how much I enjoyed the process of creating something, even if it wasn't perfect. Secondly, it taught me to see things differently. Our art teacher would always emphasise observation, really looking at the details and the way light and shadow played on objects. That skill of observation, I think, has been useful in other areas of my life too. And finally, it was just a really enjoyable and relaxing class. It was a break from the usual academic pressure, a space where you could just focus on creating without the fear of right or wrong answers. It gave me a real appreciation for art and the effort that goes into it.
Vocabulary for this Candidate task card/ cue card topic:
When describing an academic course that impressed you, using vocabulary that highlights the content, the teaching style, your engagement, and the lasting impact can create a compelling and insightful response. Focusing on the specific aspects of the course that stood out and why they were so impactful will help explain your positive impression. Here are some useful words and phrases with example sentences:
A truly engaging course – A class that held your interest and attention throughout.
Example: It was a truly engaging course from start to finish.
Profoundly insightful – Offering deep understanding and new perspectives.
Example: The lectures were profoundly insightful and thought-provoking.
Stimulated my intellectual curiosity – Made me eager to learn more and explore further.
Example: The course really stimulated my intellectual curiosity.
Covered a wide range of topics – Included many different subjects or aspects within the main theme.
Example: The syllabus covered a wide range of fascinating topics.
Delivered in an interactive manner – Taught in a way that encouraged participation and engagement.
Example: The material was delivered in a highly interactive manner.
Encouraged critical thinking – Prompted students to analyse information and form their own judgments.
Example: The assignments really encouraged critical thinking.
Hands-on activities – Practical exercises and projects that allowed for direct experience.
Example: The course involved several interesting hands-on activities.
Collaborative projects – Group assignments where students worked together.
Example: We worked on several challenging collaborative projects.
The instructor was truly inspiring – The teacher motivated and had a strong positive influence on the students.
Example: The instructor was truly inspiring and passionate about the subject.
A deep dive into [topic] – An in-depth exploration of a particular subject.
Example: The course was a deep dive into the history of art.
Opened my eyes to new perspectives – Introduced me to different ways of seeing or understanding things.
Example: It really opened my eyes to new perspectives on the world.
Had a lasting impact on me – Continued to influence my thoughts and learning even after it ended.
Example: The course had a lasting impact on my academic interests.
Fueled my passion for [subject] – Increased my strong enthusiasm for a particular area of study.
Example: It truly fueled my passion for astrophysics.
If you prepare for the topic "Describe an academic course that impressed you a lot", you should be able to talk about the following topics as well:
1) Describe a teacher whom you remember from your school.
2) Describe your favourite subject from school or college.
3) Describe something you remember from your school or college years.
4) Describe a teacher who has influenced you in your education.
5) Describe a teacher who has an unconventional way of teaching.
6) Describe something that was difficult for you to learn.
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