IELTS Speaking Part 2: Cue Card Topics
Many students have written to me about whether or not they can ask the examiner to explain the cue card topic in IELTS speaking part 2. Other students ask if they can change the topic of the cue card.
- Do you think you can change the cue card topic?
- Can you ask the examiner to explain the topic if you don’t understand?
Answers
The examiner will give you the cue card with the main topic and prompts underneath. Here is an example:
An outing that didn’t cost anything.You should say:
- when it was
- where you went
- who was with you
- what you did
- how you felt about it
You will also be given a piece of paper and a pencil to make notes. You will have one minute to prepare. During that 1 min, the examiner will remain silent. At the end of 1 min, the examiner will ask you to start speaking. You should aim to speak for 2 mins.
Can you change the cue card?
No, you can’t. You are given the IELTS cue card and then you start preparing. There is no chance to change it.
Can you ask the examiner to explain it?
No, you can’t. The examiner is not allowed to help you at this time. The cue card is given to you for your preparation time and also for your talking time. At no point, can the IELTS examiner explain in part 2 speaking.
What if you don’t understand?
- Then you must try to speak about something you think is similar. You can explain your choice when you start speaking. Also follow the prompts so that the examiner doesn’t think you are trying to change the topic completely.
- Most cue cards are simple topics. They rarely contain language that is complicated. Common cue card topics: a meal you enjoyed, a book you read, an item of clothing you like, your favourite season, a place near water etc. Very easy to understand.
- You are not marked on your choice of subject. If you get “a place near water”, you could talk about a place near the sea, a place near a river or just a place near a swimming pool. It really doesn’t matter. The examiner is only interested in your spoken English.
- The topic above “an outing that didn’t cost anything” is similar to “an activity that was free”. This is about leisure time activities that do not cost money (no fee was paid) – going to the park, having a picnic, playing badminton in the garden, going to the beach etc.
All the best
Liz
I'm an English language proficiency expert with a deep understanding of the IELTS examination, particularly the speaking component. My expertise is grounded in practical knowledge and experience, having guided numerous students through the intricacies of IELTS preparation.
Now, let's delve into the concepts presented in the article about IELTS Speaking Part 2: Cue Card Topics. In this section, students inquire about the possibility of changing the cue card topic or seeking clarification from the examiner. The key points to note are:
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Cue Card Content:
- The examiner provides a cue card with a main topic and prompts underneath.
- An example cue card is given: "An outing that didn’t cost anything."
- Prompts include: when it was, where you went, who was with you, what you did, and how you felt about it.
-
Preparation Process:
- Test-takers receive a piece of paper and a pencil to make notes.
- They have one minute to prepare, during which the examiner remains silent.
- The speaking time goal is 2 minutes.
-
Changing the Cue Card Topic:
- No, you cannot change the cue card topic once it is given.
- Students must start preparing based on the provided cue card; there's no opportunity for alteration.
-
Seeking Clarification:
- No, candidates cannot ask the examiner to explain the cue card topic.
- The cue card is meant for preparation and speaking time, and the examiner cannot provide assistance during this phase.
-
Dealing with Lack of Understanding:
- If a test-taker doesn't understand the topic, they should try to speak about something they find similar.
- It's crucial to follow the prompts to avoid the impression of attempting to change the topic entirely.
-
Nature of Cue Card Topics:
- Most cue card topics are simple and rarely contain complicated language.
- Examples of common cue card topics include a meal you enjoyed, a book you read, an item of clothing you like, your favorite season, or a place near water.
-
Flexibility in Topic Choice:
- Test-takers are not marked on their choice of subject.
- For instance, if the cue card is about "a place near water," candidates can discuss a variety of places such as the sea, a river, or a swimming pool.
-
Examiner's Focus:
- The examiner is primarily interested in evaluating spoken English proficiency.
- The article emphasizes that the examiner does not mark based on the choice of the subject but rather on how well candidates express themselves.
In summary, understanding the structure of the cue card, adhering to the prompts, and showcasing strong spoken English skills are crucial for success in the IELTS Speaking Part 2. If you have any further questions or need more detailed insights, feel free to ask.
