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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 the neighbourhood you lived in when you were a child.

You should say:

• where in your town/city the neighbourhood was 
• what kind of people lived there 
• what it was like to live in this neighbourhood 

and explain whether you would like to live in this neighbourhood in the future.

[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:
Thank you very much for this interesting topic. Here, I'd like to talk about the neighbourhood I lived in when I was a child. It holds a special place in my heart as it was the backdrop of my early memories and experiences. The neighbourhood was situated in a suburb called Green Park, located on the outskirts of my hometown.

Green Park was a peaceful and serene neighbourhood nestled amidst lush greenery. It was characterized by tree-lined streets, well-maintained parks, and neat rows of houses. The area had a close-knit community feel, with friendly neighbours who knew each other by name.

The neighbourhood was primarily inhabited by families, comprising people from diverse backgrounds and professions. There were young couples, working professionals, and retirees, creating a vibrant mix of generations. Everyone had a strong sense of community and took pride in maintaining the cleanliness and safety of the neighbourhood.

Growing up in Green Park was a delightful experience. The streets were safe, allowing children to play freely outside and form lifelong friendships. The neighbourhood had a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with residents often organizing community events and gatherings. There was a strong emphasis on neighbourly support, and everyone looked out for each other. I have fond memories of riding bicycles with my friends along the quiet streets, playing in the local park, and participating in community celebrations during festivals. The neighbourhood also had convenient amenities like grocery stores, schools, and recreational facilities, making it a self-sufficient and comfortable place to live.

Whether I'd like to live in this same neighbourhood or not is a tough question for me to answer. But after some consideration, I've realised that while my childhood neighbourhood holds a special place in my heart, I don't think I would choose to live there in the future. As I have grown older, my preferences and priorities have changed. I am now drawn towards more urban settings with better career opportunities and modern amenities. However, I will always cherish the memories and values instilled in me during my time in that neighbourhood.

Sample Answer 2:
In my childhood, I lived in a charming and pleasantly old-fashioned neighbourhood in a small town called Greenfield. Our neighbourhood was situated on the outskirts of town, nestled between rolling hills and picturesque farmlands. It was the kind of place where everyone knew everyone and a sense of community thrived. I am happy to be able to describe my beautiful neighbourhood here today.

The people who lived in Greenfield were warm and friendly, always ready to lend a helping hand. Most of the families had been living there for generations, and they took great pride in their homes and gardens. My neighbours were a diverse mix of farmers, small business owners, and teachers. There was Mr. Thompson, the local grocer, who always had a kind word and a sweet treat for the children. And then there was Mrs. Patel, who ran the town's only bakery, filling the air with the delightful scent of freshly baked bread.

Living in Greenfield was like living in a storybook. The pace of life was slow and peaceful, with children playing in the streets, and neighbours gathering for barbecues and picnics on the weekends. The town's annual fair was a highlight for everyone, bringing together the entire community for games, delicious food, and lively music. The neighbourhood was surrounded by lush greenery, with walking trails and a beautiful park where families would gather for leisurely strolls and picnics.

If given the chance, I'd love to live in Greenfield again in the future. The values of community and togetherness that were so deeply ingrained in the neighbourhood are something I cherish and hope to experience once more. Greenfield will always hold a special place in my heart, and I would be delighted to return to the comforting embrace of that small town.

Idea generation for this IELTS candidate task card / cue card question:

Here are some general ideas of neighbourhoods that people may have lived in during their childhood. You can choose any of these and develop your own answer based on the type of neighbourhood you lived in your childhood.

1. A peaceful village:
This type of neighbourhood is usually located in the countryside, surrounded by greenery, rivers, and farmland. The community is small, and most people know each other well, creating a close-knit and friendly environment. Life in such a village is simple, with people relying on agriculture or small businesses for their livelihood. Children play outside freely, and the air is fresh and clean. The pace of life is slow, making it a relaxing and comfortable place to grow up.

2. A small town:
A small town offers a mix of urban and rural life, often featuring local markets, schools, and parks. The residents are generally familiar with each other, creating a strong sense of community. Many families have lived there for generations, and there are local events and festivals that bring people together. The town is usually quiet and safe, with limited traffic and pollution, making it an ideal place for children to grow up.

3. A residential city neighbourhood:
This type of neighbourhood is found in cities but is mainly residential, consisting of apartment buildings or houses with local shops and schools nearby. It is common to see families, working professionals, and students living in such an area. The infrastructure is well-developed, with public transport, shopping malls, and entertainment centres easily accessible. Despite being in a city, these neighbourhoods often have parks and community spaces where children can play and residents can socialise.

4. A busy metropolitan city:
In a large metropolitan area, neighbourhoods are densely populated with high-rise buildings, commercial areas, and busy streets. People from different backgrounds and cultures live here, making it a diverse and vibrant place. The neighbourhoods are well connected with public transport, and there are numerous facilities such as shopping malls, cinemas, restaurants, and offices. While the lifestyle is fast-paced, and the cost of living is high, such neighbourhoods offer many opportunities for education, career growth, and entertainment.

PART - 3: Detail Discussion.

Discussion topic: Neighbours

Q. What sort of things can neighbours do to help each other?
Answer: Neighbours can engage in various activities to support and assist each other. They can offer a helping hand during times of need, such as helping with household chores, babysitting, or pet-sitting. Neighbours can also share resources and lend or borrow items, creating a sense of community sharing. Additionally, they can keep an eye on each other's properties and report any suspicious activities, enhancing the overall safety of the neighbourhood. Furthermore, neighbours can offer emotional support, lend a listening ear, and be there for each other in times of personal challenges or crises.

Q. How well do people generally know their neighbours in your country?
Answer: The level of familiarity and interaction with neighbours can vary in my country. In close-knit communities or small towns, people often have stronger connections with their neighbours. They tend to know each other's names, engage in conversations, and participate in community events together. However, in larger cities or urban areas, the level of interaction may be lower, and people might have limited knowledge about their neighbours. Nevertheless, it's important to note that this can vary from neighbourhood to neighbourhood and is influenced by cultural norms and individual preferences.

Q. How important do you think it is to have good neighbours?
Answer: Having good neighbours is highly significant for several reasons. Firstly, good neighbours contribute to a sense of belonging and community cohesion. They create a supportive and secure environment where individuals can rely on each other during times of need. Good neighbours can enhance the overall quality of life by fostering a friendly atmosphere, promoting social interactions, and reducing feelings of isolation. They can also help create a safer neighbourhood by keeping a lookout for each other's well-being and reporting any suspicious activities. Moreover, good neighbours can provide emotional support and create a network of social connections, enhancing one's overall well-being.

Discussion topic: Facilities in cities

Q. Which facilities are most important to people living in cities?
Answer: People living in cities typically prioritize access to essential facilities and services. The most important facilities include healthcare services such as hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies to cater to medical needs. Educational institutions like schools and universities are also crucial for families with children. Additionally, transportation infrastructure such as efficient public transportation systems and well-maintained roads are vital for easy commuting. Adequate housing options, including affordable and accessible housing, are also essential. Other important facilities include supermarkets, shopping centers, recreational spaces like parks, and community centers for social gatherings and events.

Q. How does shopping in small local shops differ from shopping in large city centre shops?
Answer: Shopping in small local shops offers a different experience compared to shopping in large city center shops. Small local shops often have a more personalized and intimate setting. The shopkeepers are often familiar with the regular customers and can provide personalized service and recommendations based on individual preferences. Moreover, local shops often specialize in specific products, offering unique and locally sourced items that may not be readily available in larger stores. Shopping in small local shops also contributes to the local economy and supports local businesses. On the other hand, shopping in large city center shops provides a wider range of options and brands under one roof. These stores often have a larger inventory and offer convenience, especially for individuals seeking a variety of choices and brands in a single location.

Q. Do you think that children should always go to the school nearest to where they live?
Answer: While proximity to the school is one factor to consider, it should not be the sole determinant when making decisions about a child's education. Several factors come into play when choosing a school for a child, including the quality of education, extracurricular activities, teaching methodology, and overall school environment. Sometimes, the nearest school may not meet all the criteria that parents deem important for their child's development and growth. It is crucial to prioritize the child's overall educational experience and growth rather than simply focusing on proximity.

Vocabulary for this Candidate task card / Cue card topic:

When describing your childhood neighbourhood, it's important to convey the atmosphere, the type of community, and your personal experiences. Below are some really useful words and phrases that will help you vividly describe your childhood neighbourhood:

Suburban – Located in the outskirts of a city, often quieter and more spacious.
Urban setting – An area within a city, often busy and densely populated.
Rural community – A countryside area with a small population.
Tight-knit community – A community where people are close and supportive of each other.
Close-knit neighbourhood – A place where residents know each other well and have strong social bonds.
Vibrant atmosphere – A lively and dynamic environment.
Leafy suburb – An area with many trees and green spaces.
Tranquil surroundings – Peaceful and quiet environment.
Community spirit – The sense of belonging and cooperation among residents.
Local amenities – Facilities and services available in the neighbourhood, such as parks and shops.
Bustling streets – Busy and full of people and activities.
Safe environment – A place where residents feel secure and protected.
Nostalgic – Bringing back memories of a happy time in the past.
Peaceful retreat – A calm and quiet place away from noise.
Lively neighbourhood – An area with a lot of social interactions and activities.
Sense of belonging – Feeling accepted and valued in the community.
Quaint houses – Charming and slightly old-fashioned homes.
Public square – An open area where people gather, often in the centre of a neighbourhood.
Sense of security – Feeling safe and protected in the area.
Community events – Social gatherings or activities organised within the neighbourhood.
Fond memories – Positive recollections of the past.
Childhood haunt – A place where you used to spend time during your childhood.

If you prepare for the topic "Describe the neighbourhood you lived in when you were a child", you should be able to talk about the following topics as well:

1) Describe a place you remember well from your childhood.
2) Describe the area where you live in.
3) Describe an area where you once lived.
4) Describe a place where you visited after a very long.
5) Describe a place where you spend your teenage period.

• IELTS Cue Card
• Candidate Task Card
• Speaking Part 2

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