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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 law that was introduced in your country and that you thought was a very good idea.

You should say:

• what the law was
• who introduced it
• when and why it was introduced

and explain why you thought this law was such a good idea.

[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:
Thank you very much for this wonderful topic which will enable me to talk about a law that was introduced in our country and which I believe was a great idea in terms of the positive changes it has brought and will continue to bring. 

What the law was:
Well, a law that I think was a great idea is banning the use of single-use plastic bags. It was so wonderful a law to be introduced that almost all of the people in my country welcomed it. 

Who introduced it:
In my country, the government introduced this law a few years ago to reduce plastic waste and protect the environment. As far as I remember, this law was introduced by the Ministry of Environment, and it was a major step towards tackling the plastic waste crisis. 

When and why it was introduced:
This law came into effect around 2019 when the government realised that plastic pollution was getting out of control. Plastic bags were littering streets, clogging drainage systems, and harming wildlife, especially in oceans and rivers. The law aimed to promote sustainability by encouraging people to bring their own bags while shopping.

And explain why you thought this law was such a good idea:
Personally, I think this law is one of the best environmental policies we’ve ever had. Before the ban, plastic bags were everywhere, and most people didn’t think twice before using them. Now, there’s a noticeable change—people are more conscious about their environmental impact. Many stores have completely stopped providing plastic bags, and instead, they offer paper or cloth alternatives. Even though it took some time for people to adjust, most of us now carry our own reusable bags whenever we go shopping. I really support this law because it’s a simple yet effective way to protect the planet. Plastic takes hundreds of years to decompose, and banning single-use bags has significantly reduced waste. 

Model Answer 2:

Tips for answering this Cue Card Topic:

This cue card question asks you to describe a law that was introduced in your country and explain why you think it was a good idea. Here are some useful tips to help you structure your response effectively and deliver a high-scoring answer:

1. Choose a well-known law: Pick a law that has had a significant impact on society, such as environmental laws, road safety regulations, or human rights policies. This will give you more content to discuss.

2. Be clear about the details – Ensure you mention:

What the law is – Summarize the law in simple terms.
Who introduced it – Mention the government body, organization, or individual responsible to introduce this law.
When and why it was introduced – Provide context on the background of the law and the problem it aimed to solve.
And explain why you thought this law was such a good idea – Explain why you think this law is such a good one and how it has brought positive changes and will continue to bring positive changes.

3. Don't forget to give practical examples of how this law has positively influenced people’s lives. This will make your answer more engaging and authentic.

4. Express a strong opinion: Clearly explain why you support the law. Use phrases like “I strongly believe this law was necessary because…” or “This regulation has made a remarkable difference by…” to make your opinion stand out.

5. Use advanced vocabulary and linking phrases: – Instead of saying “The law is good”, try “This legislation was a milestone in ensuring public safety”. Similarly, use phrases like “As a result”, “Consequently”, or “This has led to…” to create a smooth flow in your answer.

6. Stay confident and natural: Speak at a steady pace and use natural intonation. Avoid memorizing answers word-for-word; instead, focus on delivering your ideas fluently.

Idea Generation for this Topic:

Here are a list of few laws that were introduced in different countries. You can choose any of these laws and expand on them in your answer.  

1. Compulsory Helmet and Seatbelt Laws:  
Road safety laws, such as wearing helmets while riding motorbikes and seatbelts in cars, have been enforced in many countries to reduce fatalities from road accidents. These laws have significantly decreased injury rates in traffic collisions.  

2. Minimum Wage Law:
Governments have implemented minimum wage laws to ensure workers receive fair compensation for their labor. This law helps reduce economic inequality and improves the standard of living for low-income employees.  

3. Plastic Ban Law 
Several countries have banned the use of plastic bags and other single-use plastics to combat environmental pollution. This regulation encourages the use of eco-friendly alternatives, leading to a cleaner and greener planet.  

4. Data Protection and Privacy Law:
With the rise of digital technology, governments have enforced strict data protection laws to safeguard personal information from misuse. These laws help prevent identity theft and ensure businesses handle user data responsibly.  

5. Strict Drunk Driving Laws:
Many nations have implemented strict penalties for drunk driving, including heavy fines, license suspension, and even imprisonment. These laws have significantly reduced the number of alcohol-related road accidents.  

6. Smoking Ban in Public Places: 
Many countries have introduced laws that prohibit smoking in public places such as restaurants, offices, and public transport. This law aims to protect non-smokers from secondhand smoke and promote a healthier environment. 

7. Anti-Discrimination Law:
Countries have introduced laws that prohibit discrimination based on race, gender, religion, or disability. These laws promote equality in workplaces, schools, and society, ensuring everyone has equal rights and opportunities.  

8. Compulsory Education Law:
To reduce illiteracy rates, governments worldwide have made primary and secondary education mandatory for children. This law ensures that every child, regardless of their background, receives basic education.  

9. Animal Cruelty Prevention Law: 
This law prohibits individuals and businesses from harming or neglecting animals. It includes strict penalties for animal abuse, ensuring better treatment of pets, livestock, and wildlife.  

10. Ban on Child Labour:
Many governments have enforced laws to prevent the exploitation of children by banning child labour. These laws ensure that children focus on education instead of being forced to work under harsh conditions.  

Necessary Vocabulary Topic:

Here are some important terms and phrases related to laws and legal topics that will help you express your ideas more effectively in the IELTS Speaking test:

General Vocabulary Related to Laws:

Legislation – The process of making or enacting laws.
Law – A rule of conduct or procedure established by custom, agreement, or authority.
Regulation – A rule or directive made and maintained by an authority.
Bill – A draft of a proposed law presented to a legislature for enactment.
Statute – A written law passed by a legislative body.
Legal framework – The structure of rules and regulations governing a particular area of life.
Compliance – The act of following laws or regulations.
Enforcement – The process of ensuring that laws are followed.
Penalty – A punishment imposed for breaking a law.
Violation – The act of breaking or disregarding a law or rule.
Rights – Legal entitlements or freedoms granted to individuals under law.
Justice – Fair treatment according to the law.
 

Vocabulary Related to Specific Laws:

Ban – An official or legal prohibition on something.
Mandatory – Required by law or rules.
Prohibition – The act of forbidding something by law.
Infringement – The violation or breaking of a law or rule.
Discrimination – Unfair treatment of people based on their race, religion, gender, etc.
Environmentally friendly – Practices or actions that do not harm the environment.
Public safety – Measures or policies aimed at ensuring the safety of the general population.
Human rights – The basic rights and freedoms to which all individuals are entitled.
Consumer protection – Laws and regulations designed to protect the rights of consumers.
Sustainability – The capacity to maintain certain practices or actions over the long term without damaging the environment.
 

Words Related to Enforcement and Compliance:

Abide by – To follow or obey (a law, rule, or guideline).
Uphold – To support or maintain a law, principle, or decision.
Strict – Rigidly enforced or tightly regulated.
Implement – To put a decision, law, or plan into effect.
Monitor – To observe and check the progress or quality of something, especially to ensure compliance with rules.
Penalty – A punishment for violating a law or regulation.
Fines – Money imposed as punishment for an infringement.
Sanction – A penalty for disobeying a law or rule.
Reform – To make changes to a system or law to improve it.
 

Describing the Impact of Laws:

Reduce – To make something smaller or less in amount, degree, or size (e.g., reduce pollution).
Prevent – To stop something from happening (e.g., prevent accidents).
Promote – To encourage or support a cause or behavior (e.g., promote health, promote equality).
Protect – To safeguard or defend from harm (e.g., protect the environment).
Improve – To make something better (e.g., improve public health, improve safety).
Encourage – To give support or confidence to someone (e.g., encourage recycling).
Address – To deal with or tackle an issue (e.g., address discrimination).
Facilitate – To make something easier or possible (e.g., facilitate trade, facilitate education).
Support – To endorse or approve something (e.g., support human rights).

Part 3 - Details Discussion:

Discussion topic: School rules. 

Q. What kinds of rules are common in a school? 
Answer: Well, I believe common school rules typically include guidelines on behaviour, such as respecting teachers and peers, following instructions, and maintaining good discipline. Schools also have rules about attendance, punctuality, and uniform codes. There are usually regulations regarding the use of mobile phones, appropriate language, and the maintenance of cleanliness in classrooms and common areas. Some schools also have rules related to academic integrity, like prohibiting cheating and plagiarism.

Q. How important is it to have rules in a school? 
Answer: In my personal opinion, rules are essential in a school environment as they help maintain order, discipline, and a positive learning atmosphere. They set clear expectations for behaviour, allowing students to focus on their studies and creating a sense of fairness and equality. I do belive that having rules also encourages responsibility, respect, and accountability.

Q. What do you recommend should happen if children break school rules?
Answer: Ummm, if children break school rules, it’s important for the school to address the situation in a way that is both fair and educational. Initially, students should be made aware of why their actions were wrong and given an opportunity to correct their behaviour. Depending on the severity of the violation, consequences could range from a verbal warning to more serious measures, like detention or suspension. However, it’s important that consequences are always proportionate and aim to help the child understand the consequences of their actions, rather than simply punishing them.

Discussion topic: Working in the legal profession.

Q. Can you suggest why many students decide to study law at university?
Answer: From my experience and what I have read, I can say that many students choose to study law because it offers a broad and versatile career path with opportunities in various fields, such as criminal law, corporate law, human rights, and international law. The appeal of working in a profession that influences society and offers a great salary as well as helps uphold justice, and promotes fairness also attracts many students. Some students may be inspired by a personal interest in justice or have a family history in the legal profession. For all those reasons many students decide to study law and become a lawyer, barrister or judge.

Q. What are the key personal qualities needed to be a successful lawyer?
Answer: I guess, to be a successful lawyer, critical thinking and problem-solving skills are crucial to analyzing legal issues and formulating effective strategies. Strong communication skills, both written and oral, are necessary for arguing cases, drafting legal documents, and negotiating. A good lawyer must also be detail-oriented and organized to manage complex cases efficiently. 

Q. Do you agree that working in the legal profession is very stressful? 
Answer: Yes, I do agree that working in the legal profession can be stressful. Lawyers often face long hours, demanding clients, and high-pressure situations, particularly in fields like litigation or corporate law. The responsibility of handling significant cases and the potential consequences of mistakes can also add to the stress. However, stress levels can vary depending on the area of law and the individual lawyer's workload and work-life balance. 

If you prepare for this cue card/ candidate task card topic, you should be able to answer the following topics as well with very few changes:

1. Describe a law that you like.
2. Describe a law that has brought positive changes to your country.
3. Describe a law you would like to introduce in your country.
4. Describe a rule or law you believe is important.
5. Describe a law in your country.
6. Describe a law that was introduced in your country. 

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

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