Cue Cards Samples with band 8 answers
Describe a useful object you cannot live without - Cue Card # 790
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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 useful object that you think you cannot live without.
You should say:
- what it is
- how long you have had it
- what you use it for
and explain why you think you can not live without 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:
Well, I had never really thought that a particular “object” is a “must” thing in our lives and that we just can’t live without it. Well, anyway, not really sure about the others, but as for me, I have to have a TV at my home, and I just can’t seem to think of living without it.
Now, I am not sure when my family exactly bought a TV for the first time, but I have been seeing it, sitting on a fancy desk in our living room, since the time I started to understand the things around me. Now, it could be a matter of debate as to from what age, kids start to develop their understanding of their world, but I am assuming that it can start as early as 3 years. In other words, we can safely guess that we have had this thing at home for at least 30 years since I am almost 30 years old now.
Of course, within this long time, I have seen my parents buying new televisions several times in order to replace the old ones, but the most important thing is that we have never had to live even a single day without a TV in the last 30 years or so. And not only that, but also, I can’t seem to remember a day when I didn’t sit in front of our TV and watch a movie, drama serial, news, or other types of entertaining and educational programmes on it unless I was too busy or lying down flat on my bed because of some serious illness or I was out of home.
So, I guess, it is fair to say that I can’t really live without this thing called “TV” since it has accompanied me through thick and thin whether I am happy or sad. I can’t live without it, also because it is continuously teaching me something about life while also creating a much-needed awareness of the environments and cultures around me - at the same time like a good teacher.
Sample Answer 2:
Introduction:
Oh, there are so many things that I believe are integral parts of my life. So when I was brainstorming for this "one" thing, several items came to my mind. Here, I would like to talk about a thing that is very important to me, and I cannot imagine living without it. I will tell you shortly which item it is, how long I have owned and used it, how I use it, and why this item is so important to me.
What it is:
This very important item is a music player that I use to listen to music almost every single day. My music player is a small electronic device that stores and plays music in digital format. It is a portable device that I can easily carry in my pocket or bag. It is made by Sony.
How long you have had it:
I have been using a music player for almost eight years. But the current one is not more than eight months old. It was a gift from my parents on my last birthday.
What you use it for:
I use my music player to listen to music. I have downloaded thousands of songs on it, and I listen to it while travelling, jogging, working out, or even sometimes while studying.
And explain why you think you cannot live without it:
Music is an essential part of my life, and my music player has become an indispensable part of it. It helps me to relax and unwind after a long and stressful day. It also motivates me to stay focused and productive while working. I believe that it is not just a device to listen to music, but it is also a source of comfort and inspiration for me. I feel lost and incomplete without it, and I cannot imagine my life without it.
Model Answer 3:
Introduction:
In the rhythm of our daily lives, certain possessions become indispensable, seamlessly integrating into our routines. One such thing that I've come to regard as essential is my car, a reliable companion in the journey of life. I am not sure if I would die without it(!) but without my car, my life would definitely become a lot more difficult.
What it is:
My car is a sleek, silver sedan, a loyal four-wheeled friend of the Honda brand that has been a part of my life for the past six years. It has weathered countless journeys and stood witness to the various chapters of my life during this time.
How long you have had it:
I acquired this car shortly after completing my graduate studies. It was a significant milestone, symbolising not just a mode of transportation but also a marker of newfound independence and responsibilities.
What you use it for:
This car serves as my means of commuting to work, navigating the city, and embarking on weekend getaways. Its versatility has proven invaluable, whether it's the daily commute through the bustling city or the spontaneous road trips that bring a refreshing change to the routine.
And explain why you think you cannot live without it:
Beyond its utilitarian functions, the car has become an integral part of my lifestyle. It provides a sense of autonomy and freedom, allowing me to explore my surroundings at my own pace. It represents more than just a mode of transportation; it embodies a sense of control and comfort that has seamlessly woven into the fabric of my daily life.
Idea generation for this Candidate task card/ Cue card topic:
There are certain objects in our daily lives that become so indispensable that we cannot imagine living without them. These objects serve specific purposes, making life more convenient, comfortable, and efficient. Here are some ideas for describing a useful object you think you cannot live without:
1. Smartphone:
My smartphone is undoubtedly the most important object in my life, and I’ve had it for about 5 years. I use it for communication, navigation, entertainment, banking, and as a tool for work. The versatility of my smartphone makes it indispensable because it allows me to stay connected to people, manage my daily tasks, and access information in real-time. I cannot imagine living without it because it has become an essential part of my personal and professional life, providing both convenience and efficiency.
2. Laptop:
My laptop is another object that I cannot live without. I’ve had it for nearly 4 years, and I use it daily for work, learning, and personal tasks like browsing the internet or watching movies. It’s crucial for my productivity, as I use it for writing, communicating, and organising my schedule. I rely on it for both work and leisure, and I can’t imagine being without it since it enables me to perform a variety of tasks that I would otherwise struggle to do.
3. Wallet:
My wallet is something I’ve had for many years, and it’s an object I use every day. I use it to store cash, cards, identification, and other important documents. The wallet helps me keep my financial and personal information organised, and it is essential for handling transactions and carrying essentials. I cannot live without it because it holds things I need regularly and ensures I have access to funds and identification at all times.
4. Watch:
I’ve had my wristwatch for about 3 years now, and it’s something I use every day to keep track of time. Aside from its primary function, my watch also serves as a stylish accessory that complements my outfits. I think I could not live without it because it helps me stay punctual and organised throughout the day, and it’s a simple yet essential tool for managing my time efficiently.
5. Coffee Maker:
One object I truly cannot live without is my coffee maker. I’ve had it for about 2 years, and I use it every morning to make coffee. It’s become part of my daily routine, providing the boost I need to start my day. I cannot live without it because I love the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, and it’s the perfect way for me to wake up and feel energised. Without it, I would likely feel sluggish and unproductive in the mornings.
6. Headphones:
My headphones are an essential item for me, especially since I’ve had them for over 3 years. I use them to listen to music, podcasts, or attend virtual meetings. They help me concentrate and block out distractions while working or studying. I cannot live without them because they allow me to focus and unwind, making both work and relaxation much more enjoyable.
7. Refrigerator:
My refrigerator is an object I have had for several years, and it is indispensable in my home. I use it to store food, beverages, and leftovers. The refrigerator helps me keep food fresh and organised, allowing me to plan meals and reduce waste. I cannot live without it because it ensures that I have access to food and drinks at all times, and it makes meal preparation much more convenient.
8. Glasses:
As someone who wears glasses, I cannot imagine living without them. I’ve had my current pair for around 2 years, and I rely on them every day to see clearly. I use them for reading, working on the computer, and generally carrying out most of my daily activities. Without my glasses, I would struggle to perform basic tasks, which is why they are essential to my everyday life.
9. Electric Toothbrush:
My electric toothbrush is another object I consider essential. I’ve had it for 4 years, and it has significantly improved my dental hygiene routine. I use it daily to clean my teeth, and it helps me ensure a thorough clean every time. I cannot live without it because it provides a higher level of cleaning compared to a manual toothbrush, helping me maintain better oral health with minimal effort.
10. Air Purifier:
An air purifier is something I’ve recently added to my home, and I now cannot live without it. I use it to clean the air and reduce allergens and pollutants. I’ve had it for about a year, and it has improved the air quality in my home significantly. I cannot live without it because it helps me breathe more easily, especially with allergies, and it provides a healthier environment for me and my family.
Vocabulary for this Candidate task card/ cue card topic:
When describing a useful object you think you cannot live without, using vocabulary that emphasizes its practicality, longevity, utility, and essential nature can create a compelling and relatable response. Focusing on how it integrates into your daily life and the impact its absence would have will help explain its indispensability. Here are some useful words and phrases with example sentences:
Versatile – Having many different uses or functions.
Example: My laptop is a versatile piece of equipment as I use it for work, entertainment, and social media.
Efficiency – The ability to do something in a quick and effective way.
Example: The new software has greatly improved my efficiency at work by streamlining many tasks.
Convenience – The quality of being easy and suitable for your needs.
Example: The convenience of online shopping has made it much easier to buy things without leaving home.
Productivity – The effectiveness or rate of output.
Example: Using time management techniques has greatly improved my productivity, allowing me to finish tasks more efficiently.
Sustainability – The ability to maintain or support over time.
Example: I admire companies that focus on sustainability by using renewable energy sources in their production processes.
Essential – Absolutely necessary or extremely important.
Example: Having a good internet connection is essential for my job, as I work remotely.
Improve – To make something better or more effective.
Example: I constantly seek ways to improve my skills by attending workshops and reading books.
Energy-efficient – Using less energy to perform a task or function.
Example: My energy-efficient washing machine uses less water and electricity, helping me save on bills.
Durable – Able to withstand wear, pressure, or damage over time.
Example: The durable material of my backpack ensures it lasts for years despite heavy use.
Functionality – The practical use or operation of something.
Example: The functionality of my smartwatch includes tracking my fitness, checking notifications, and making calls. An indispensable item – An object that is absolutely necessary or essential.
Example: My smartphone has become an indispensable item in my daily life.
An indispensable item – An object that is absolutely necessary or essential.
Example: My smartphone has become an indispensable item in my daily life.
A vital piece of technology/equipment – A crucial tool or device for your needs.
Example: My laptop is a vital piece of technology for both work and personal use.
Integral to my daily routine – Forming an essential part of your everyday activities.
Example: My alarm clock is integral to my daily routine.
Use it on a constant basis – Employ it very frequently or continuously.
Example: I use my headphones on a constant basis for listening to music and podcasts.
Would feel lost without it – Expressing a strong sense of dependence on the object.
Example: I honestly feel like I would be lost without my smartphone.
If you prepare for the topic "Describe a useful object that you think you cannot live without", you should be able to talk about the following topics as well:
1) Describe a place that you have visited recently.
2) Describe a useful household appliance that you have.
3) Describe something you own which is very important to you.
4) Describe a piece of electronic equipment you find useful
5) Describe a piece of equipment at your home that is important to you.
6) Describe a piece of modern technology that you own.
7) Describe something that you often use and find useful.
8) Describe one of your possessions which you cannot live without.
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