Cue Cards Samples with band 8 answers
Describe a rule that is important in your school or at work - Cue Card # 860
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IELTS Speaking Part 2: Individual Long Run - 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 rule that is important in your school or at work.
You should say:
- what the rule is about
- how this rule helps
- how you feel about this rule
and explain why this is such an important rule for your school or your workplace.
[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.]
[Examiner: All right? Remember you have one to two minutes for this, so don't worry if I stop you. I'll tell you when the time is up. Can you start speaking now, please?]
Model Answer 1:
Introduction:
I must thank you first for allowing me to talk about this topic. So, I’d like to describe a rule at my college that I believe is crucial for creating a productive and focused learning environment. I hope you will also agree with me that this rule is really important.
What the rule is about:
The rule is simple: no electronic gadgets, such as mobile phones, tablets, or laptops, are allowed to be used during class unless they are required for the lesson and permitted by the class teacher. The intention behind this rule is to ensure that students remain focused and engaged during lectures without the distractions that personal devices often bring.
How this rule helps:
I believe this rule plays a significant role in maintaining a conducive learning environment in our college. By limiting the use of electronic gadgets, students are encouraged to concentrate fully on the lecture, participate in discussions, and interact with their peers and instructors without the constant pull of social media or personal notifications.
How you feel about this rule:
Personally, I support and like this rule. While I understand the importance of staying connected in today’s digital world, I believe that the classroom is a space where focus and attention are paramount. When I’m in class, I want to make the most of the learning experience, and using gadgets can be a major distraction. I’ve noticed that when students are allowed to use their phones or laptops freely, it can lead to side conversations, browsing unrelated content, and a general decline in class participation. This rule, however, ensures that everyone is on the same page and that the class runs smoothly without interruptions.
And explain why this is such an important rule for your school or your workplace:
This rule is particularly important in my college because it upholds the quality of education. The college prides itself on fostering a focused, intellectual environment, and this rule helps maintain that atmosphere. In a place where students are expected to engage in deep discussions, analyze complex topics, and retain vast amounts of information, having distractions like electronic gadgets can be counterproductive. Moreover, this rule encourages a sense of discipline and respect for both the instructors and fellow students. It sets clear boundaries for the appropriate use of technology, teaching students to be mindful of when and where devices should be used.
Model Answer 2:
Thank you very much for this intriguing topic, which will allow me to describe an important rule from my workplace. Well, the rule I'd like to discuss is quite common in many professional environments, and it's about restricting internet usage only to work-related tasks. At my office, this means that the internet connection is constantly monitored, and access to non-work-related websites, particularly social media platforms and streaming services, is blocked.
We're expected to use the internet solely for work, research, communication with clients and colleagues, and accessing company resources. This rule significantly helps maintain a focused and productive work environment. For example, it ensures that employees aren't spending valuable company time browsing personal social media feeds, watching videos, or engaging in other non-work-related online activities. It also helps in protecting company data and network security, as accessing unverified or personal websites can sometimes pose risks.
When this rule was first implemented, I'll admit, my initial reaction was a mix of slight frustration and surprise. Like many people, I was accustomed to having open internet access, and the idea of being restricted felt a bit intrusive. However, as time went on, my feelings shifted considerably. I quickly realised the immense benefit it brought to my personal productivity. Without the constant temptation of notifications or the urge to 'just quickly check' something irrelevant, I, at the office, found myself getting through tasks much faster and with greater concentration.
Ultimately, I think this is an incredibly important rule for our workplace. Its primary importance lies in its ability to minimise distractions and ensure that company resources – including time, bandwidth, and equipment – are used as efficiently as possible. In today's hyper-connected world, where digital distractions are abundant, such a rule creates a conducive environment for focused work and high-quality output. It fosters a culture of professionalism and efficiency, making sure that everyone is contributing to the company's goals without unnecessary diversions.
Idea generation for this Candidate task card/ Cue card topic:
This topic asks you to describe a rule that is considered important in your school or workplace. To make your answer up to the mark, explain what the rule is, how it benefits students or employees, how you personally feel about the rule, and why it is seen as important in that environment. Here are a few ideas to help you develop your own response:
1. Mandatory punctuality (in school):
At my school, everyone is required to arrive before 8 a.m. sharp. This rule is strictly enforced and even minor delays are marked as late. It helps maintain discipline and ensures that classes start on time. Personally, I think it builds a good habit and teaches responsibility. This rule is important because it sets the tone for a productive day and creates a professional culture.
2. No use of mobile phones during class (in college):
My college had a strict rule against using mobile phones during class hours. It helped minimize distractions and encouraged students to focus on the lesson. I initially found it a bit inconvenient, but later appreciated it because I was able to concentrate better. This rule is important as it promotes active learning and reduces interruptions.
3. Wearing an ID badge at all times (in office):
At my workplace, every employee must wear an ID badge while on the premises. This rule helps with security and identification, especially in large offices. I feel neutral about it, as it's easy to follow and makes sense for safety reasons. It’s an important rule because it helps prevent unauthorized access and ensures accountability.
4. Submitting assignments before deadlines (in university):
In university, one crucial rule was to submit assignments by the deadline with no exceptions. This rule helped students stay organised and allowed instructors to grade fairly. I liked the structure it brought, though it was sometimes stressful. This rule is important because it mirrors real-world expectations and encourages time management.
5. Weekly team meetings are compulsory (in the workplace):
At my internship, attending weekly team meetings was mandatory. This rule ensured that everyone stayed updated on projects and team goals. I felt it was a useful rule because it improved collaboration and communication. It's considered important because it fosters team alignment and prevents misunderstandings.
6. Zero tolerance for plagiarism (in college):
My college had a very strict rule against plagiarism. Any copied content in assignments could result in a failing grade or disciplinary action. This rule taught us academic honesty and the value of original work. I fully support it because it maintains the credibility of the institution and promotes genuine learning.
7. Clean desk policy at the office (in the office):
One rule at my workplace is that employees must clear their desks before leaving each day. It helps keep the office tidy and ensures data privacy. Initially, I thought it was a bit too rigid, but it actually made the work environment more pleasant. This rule is important for professionalism and information security.
8. Dress code enforcement (in high school):
My high school required students to wear a uniform every day. It helped reduce peer pressure related to fashion and kept students focused on academics. I didn’t mind the rule because it created a sense of equality. It’s an important rule because it maintains discipline and promotes a formal learning atmosphere.
9. No food or drinks in the classroom (in school):
One common rule at my school was that students could not eat or drink during class. This helped keep the classroom clean and prevented distractions. While I sometimes felt hungry during long classes, I understood the purpose behind it. It’s important because it ensures hygiene and keeps the learning environment focused.
10. Internet usage restricted to work-related tasks (in the office):
At my office, the internet is monitored and only allowed for work-related purposes. Social media and streaming sites are blocked. While this felt strict at first, it really helped improve my productivity. The rule is important because it minimizes distractions and ensures that company resources are used efficiently.
Vocabulary for this Candidate task card/ Cue card topic:
When describing an important rule in your school or workplace, using precise vocabulary can effectively convey its nature, its benefits, and your personal stance on it, which will help you achieve a better band score. Moreover, thoughtful word choices will help you articulate its significance and impact, making your response clear and well-reasoned. Here we have composed some relevant words and phrases for you.
Mandate: – An official order or commission to do something.
Example: The dress code is a clear mandate from the administration, designed to maintain professionalism.
Protocol: – The official procedure or system of rules governing affairs of state or diplomatic occasions.
Example: There's a strict protocol for data security that everyone must adhere to.
Imperative: – Of vital importance; crucial.
Example: This rule is truly imperative for maintaining a safe and productive environment.
Ensures fairness: – Guarantees that everyone is treated justly and equally.
Example: The anti-discrimination policy ensures fairness for all students.
Maintains decorum: – Preserves proper behaviour and etiquette.
Example: The rule about respecting personal space helps maintain decorum in the shared office.
Fosters a productive environment: – Encourages the development of a workplace or school where a lot is achieved.
Example: Our punctuality rule significantly fosters a productive environment.
Promotes accountability: – Encourages individuals or groups to be responsible for their actions.
Example: The deadline submission policy promotes accountability among team members.
Underpins core values: – Forms the fundamental basis for the essential principles or standards.
Example: This honesty policy underpins the core values of our academic institution.
Streamlines operations: – Makes work or processes more efficient and rational.
Example: Standardized operating procedures streamline operations and reduce errors.
Enhances safety: – Improves the condition of being protected from danger, risk, or injury.
Example: The compulsory use of safety gear significantly enhances safety on site.
Cultivates respect: – Develops admiration for someone or something, often through appreciation of their qualities.
Example: The rule about respectful communication cultivates mutual respect among colleagues.
Adherence is crucial: – Compliance or following the rule is of vital importance.
Example: Adherence to the company's confidentiality agreement is absolutely crucial.
Creates a level playing field: – Establishes a situation in which everyone has an equal chance of succeeding.
Example: The strict rules against plagiarism create a level playing field for all students.
If you prepare for the topic "Describe a rule that is important in your school or at work", you should be able to talk about the following topics as well:
1) Describe a rule that was recently introduced in your school or workplace.
2) Describe a law which you like.
3) Describe a rule you did not like in your school.
4) Describe a rule that you do not like.
5) Describe something you suggested that your school or office introduced.
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