Cue Cards Samples with band 8 answers
Describe a city that you think is very interesting - Cue Card # 771
- Details
- Last Updated: Wednesday, 14 May 2025 15:36
- Written by IELTS Mentor
- Hits: 39511
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 city that you think is very interesting.
You should say:
- what city it is
- what it is famous for
- how you know about this city
and explain why you think it is a very interesting city.
[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:
Thank you for choosing this interesting topic for me because I actually love to learn and talk about interesting places around the world. One such tremendously interesting place, in my humble opinion, is New York City.
Now, please don’t get me wrong as I have nothing against London, Paris, Tokyo or Rio de Janeiro, but I have always struggled to understand why people would prefer these cities over New York City. To me, New York City undoubtedly is the “capital” of this world since there is just something for everybody here.
Of course, I must admit that I have visited this city only once for a week, but after learning so much about it from my visit and from my friends (living there), TV programmes, movies, newspapers and travel magazines, I think that I know a lot more about this city than the people who actually live in there!!! Now, you are probably thinking I am just bluffing here, but I am not! For example, I know it is famous for the "Statue of Liberty” standing tall in the Hudson River, actually had arrived as a gift from France! By the way, this city, home to 80 million people, is also famous for some of the world’s tallest Skyscrapers, and the world’s largest gold reserve. Besides the incredibly fast pace of this place, the buzzing traffic, the hustle and bustle of the people from all over the world, the 24-hour life, and the creative spirit are also some of the things which make this city really famous as well.
But, apart from all these things, what makes this city even more interesting to me is that it is undoubtedly the most linguistically diverse city in the world where 800 languages are spoken! In other words, there isn’t even a single country in this world whose citizens don’t live in this mega city or haven’t lived here at some point in time since the birth of it! Besides, the positive vibe and energy it creates among its citizens, no matter where they come from, transcends all kinds of national and cultural barriers.
Model Answer 2:
Introduction:
Scotland is one of the most beautiful countries in the world with a rich history and culture. I am lucky that I had been to this country a couple of years ago. The country is filled with breathtaking landscapes, fascinating castles, and charming towns. One of the cities in Scotland that I find very interesting is Edinburgh.
What city it is:
Edinburgh is the capital city of Scotland and is located in the southeastern part of the country. It is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and cultural festivals.
What it is famous for:
Edinburgh is famous for its iconic Edinburgh Castle, which sits atop an extinct volcano and is visible from most parts of the city. It is also known for the Royal Mile, a historic street that stretches from the castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the monarch in Scotland. The city is also famous for its annual festivals such as the Edinburgh International Festival, the Fringe Festival, and the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.
How you know about this city:
I first learned about Edinburgh when I was studying Scottish history in school. Since then, I have always been fascinated by its rich history and cultural heritage. Then in 2019, I was lucky enough to visit this city and witness its stunning beauty and interesting landscapes and castles with my own eye.
And explain why you think it is a very interesting city:
Edinburgh is an interesting city because it has so much to offer. Its beautiful architecture, rich history, and cultural festivals make it an ideal destination for tourists from all over the world. The city has a unique charm that is difficult to find elsewhere. I am particularly drawn to the city's beautiful landscapes, which are perfect for hiking and exploring. Additionally, the Scottish people are very friendly and welcoming, which adds to the overall appeal of the city.
Idea generation for this Candidate task card / Cue card topic:
When describing a city that you find interesting, it’s a good idea to talk about its culture, history, attractions, or your personal experience with it. Below are several city suggestions from different regions of the world. Each idea includes key points that answer the accompanying questions from the cue card.
1. Kyoto, Japan:
This historic Japanese city is famous for its ancient temples, cherry blossom trees, and traditional tea ceremonies. I read about Kyoto in a travel magazine and have seen countless travel vlogs about it. I think it's a fascinating city because it combines traditional Japanese culture with modern touches, making it a perfect blend of old and new.
2. Istanbul, Turkey:
Istanbul is known for its unique position between Europe and Asia, as well as its historic mosques and bazaars. I learned about this city from a history class and later saw it in a documentary. Its cultural diversity and rich historical heritage make it incredibly interesting to me.
3. Cape Town, South Africa:
Cape Town is famous for Table Mountain, its beaches, and its multicultural community. I found out about it while researching places to visit in Africa. The dramatic landscapes and the city's role in global history caught my attention.
4. Barcelona, Spain:
This Spanish city is known for its architecture, especially Gaudí’s Sagrada Família and Park Güell. I first came across Barcelona while studying art and architecture. The city’s colourful buildings, seaside location, and vibrant street life make it fascinating.
5. Dubai, UAE:
Dubai is renowned for its skyscrapers, shopping malls, and luxury lifestyle. I learned about it from friends who live in the Middle East. The contrast between the desert surroundings and the ultra-modern skyline makes it one of the most captivating cities to explore.
6. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil:
Famous for its carnival, beaches, and the Christ the Redeemer statue, Rio is a city of energy and celebration. I discovered it through a travel blog. Its breathtaking scenery and festive atmosphere are what make it so appealing.
7. Venice, Italy:
Venice is known for its canals, gondolas, and historic buildings. I first learned about it through literature and movies. The idea of a city built entirely on water is both romantic and fascinating to me.
8. Hanoi, Vietnam:
This city is famous for its street food, French colonial architecture, and lakes. I came across it while reading about Southeast Asian cultures. Hanoi stands out to me because of its mixture of history, tradition, and modern development.
9. New York City, USA:
New York is known for its skyline, Broadway, and as a global cultural hub. I learned about it from movies and the news. Its diversity, fast-paced life, and endless activities make it a dream destination for many, including me.
10. Marrakech, Morocco:
Marrakech is famous for its colourful markets, palaces, and gardens. I discovered it while watching a travel documentary. Its exotic atmosphere and rich cultural heritage make it one of the most interesting cities I’ve ever read about.
11. Varanasi, India:
Varanasi is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and is considered the spiritual capital of India. I learned about it while reading a travel memoir on sacred cities. With its ghats on the River Ganges, daily rituals, and rich cultural traditions, it offers a deeply spiritual and historical experience, making it incredibly interesting to me.
12. Toronto, Canada:
Toronto is a multicultural metropolis known for its CN Tower, diverse neighbourhoods, and bustling arts and food scenes. I first became interested in the city while researching universities in North America. Its cultural diversity, modern infrastructure, and vibrant lifestyle make it a city I find truly fascinating.
13. Samarkand, Uzbekistan:
Samarkand is an ancient city that was a central hub on the Silk Road and is renowned for its Islamic architecture and historical significance. I came across this city in a documentary about Central Asian history. Its majestic mosques, colourful mosaics, and centuries-old legacy make it a captivating place to learn about and visit.
Sample Answer 3:
Introduction:
I am originally from India, but now live in Toronto, and I believe that it is one of the most fascinating cities in Canada, famous for its rich history, cultural diversity, and stunning architecture. For this fabulous topic, I would like to describe Toronto.
What city it is:
Toronto is the capital city of the province of Ontario and the most populous city in Canada. I have been living in this city for the last 4 years and it still surprises me every now and then!
What it is famous for:
Toronto is famous for many things, such as the CN Tower, the Hockey Hall of Fame, the Toronto Islands, and the Royal Ontario Museum. It is also known for being a hub for business, technology, and entertainment. The city boasts a vibrant arts and music scene, with festivals and events happening year-round.
How you know about this city:
I live in this city and I know it from my heart as I consider myself to be a part of it.
And explain why you think it is a very interesting city:
Toronto is a melting pot of cultures, with people from all over the world calling it home. This makes for a unique and diverse experience for visitors, as they can sample food from all corners of the globe, explore various neighbourhoods, and learn about different customs and traditions. The city is also very welcoming and inclusive, making it a great place to visit for all types of travellers. Additionally, Toronto is home to some of the best museums, galleries, and cultural institutions in Canada, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in art, history, or culture.
Vocabulary for this Candidate Task Card / Cue Card topic:
Describing a city that you find very interesting requires a mix of geographical, cultural, and emotional vocabulary. Here are some useful words and phrases that can help you describe a city in detail and express your fascination effectively:
Metropolis – A large and densely populated city that is often a cultural or economic hub.
Cosmopolitan – A city or area that is culturally diverse and includes people from many different countries.
Architectural marvel – A building or structure that is considered very impressive or unique in design.
Bustling – Full of activity, energy, and noise; used to describe vibrant city life.
Cultural melting pot – A place where many different cultures coexist and influence each other.
Historic landmark – A place of historical importance that is preserved and recognised by the public.
Picturesque – Visually attractive, especially in a charming or quaint way.
Vibrant atmosphere – A lively, energetic, and positive environment.
Iconic – Widely recognised and well-established as being symbolic or representative of something important.
Tourist hotspot – A place frequently visited by tourists due to its attractions or significance.
Well-connected – A city that has a strong transportation system or easy access to other regions.
Urban charm – The special or attractive quality of a city or town.
Scenic views – Beautiful and natural visual surroundings often found in or around a city.
Dynamic – Constantly changing, growing, or full of new things; often used to describe cities.
Heritage site – A location designated as having cultural, historical, or scientific significance, often protected by UNESCO.
Local flavour – The unique cultural aspects, traditions, or characteristics that define a city.
Enchanting – Delightfully charming or attractive, often in a magical or unusual way.
Civic pride – The pride residents feel about their city’s achievements and appearance.
Cityscape – The visual appearance of a city, especially from a distance or from an elevated place.
Hub of innovation – A city known for creativity, technology, or new ideas in business and culture.
If you prepare for the topic "Describe a city that you think is very interesting", you should be able to talk about the following topics as well:
1) Describe a city that you have visited and liked.
2) Describe a beautiful city you have visited.
3) Describe an interesting place you have visited as a tourist.
4) Describe a city you would like to visit in the future.
5) Describe a beautiful place you would like to visit.
6) Describe a city or town where you once lived.
7) Describe a historical place you have visited and liked.
8) Describe a place you have visited that has beautiful views.
Report