Cue Cards Samples with band 8 answers
Describe a place you visited that has beautiful views - Cue Card # 859
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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 place you visited that has beautiful views.
You should say:
- where this place is
- when and why you visited it
- what views you can see from this place
and explain why you think these views are so beautiful.
[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 giving me the opportunity to talk about a place I visited that has beautiful views. I'd like to describe a mesmerizing place that left a lasting impression on me due to its breathtaking scenery.
Where this place is:
The place I am talking about is the Banff National Park, located in the province of Alberta, Canada. It is a renowned destination for nature enthusiasts and is famous for its stunning landscapes, majestic mountains, and crystal-clear lakes.
When and why you visited it:
I visited Banff National Park last summer during my holiday break. I had heard a lot about the beauty of this place from friends and saw countless photos online. So, I decided to visit with a group of friends who also love exploring nature. Our plan was to spend a few days hiking, camping, and immersing ourselves in the natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies.
What views you can see from this place:
The views from Banff are absolutely mesmerizing. One of the most iconic sights is the turquoise-blue Lake Louise, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and dense evergreen forests. The towering peaks of Mount Rundle and Sulphur Mountain are also visible, creating a dramatic backdrop. We took a gondola ride up the mountain, and the panoramic view from the top was nothing short of spectacular. We could see endless stretches of lush valleys, glittering lakes, and rugged mountains stretching as far as the eye could see.
And explain why you think these views are so beautiful:
I think the views from Banff National Park are so beautiful because of the perfect combination of natural elements. The vibrant colours of the lakes, the pristine white snow on the peaks, and the green valleys all come together to create a picture-perfect scene. Moreover, the tranquil atmosphere and the feeling of being surrounded by untouched nature made the experience even more surreal. The beauty of this place left me in awe, and I couldn’t stop taking pictures to capture every moment. It felt like stepping into a postcard, and I would love to visit again someday to relive those enchanting views.
Model Answer 2:
Introduction:
Thank you for this great topic, and I'd like to share a memorable experience of visiting a place that has stunning views. It was a remarkable journey that left a lasting impression on me and I hope you will also be interested in visiting this place after you hear it from me.
Where this place is:
The place I am going to talk about is a beautiful sea beach located on the coastline of my country. It is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, known for its vast sandy stretches and calming waves. The beach is not far from the city, making it an ideal spot for weekend getaways.
When and why you visited it:
I visited this beach about a year ago with my family during our summer vacation. We were looking for a peaceful and relaxing place to unwind from our busy lives, and the beach seemed like the perfect choice. The idea was to spend quality time together, enjoy the fresh sea breeze, and indulge in some beach activities.
What views you can see from this place:
The views from the beach were absolutely captivating. The vast expanse of golden sand stretched endlessly along the shoreline, while the waves gently crashed onto the shore, creating a soothing rhythm. The crystal-clear water glistened under the sunlight, and in the distance, fishing boats sailed gracefully across the horizon. As the sun began to set, the sky turned into a palette of warm hues – shades of orange, pink, and purple reflecting off the water, making the whole scene look surreal.
And explain why you think these views are so beautiful:
I found the views incredibly beautiful because of their natural simplicity and tranquillity. The sound of the waves, the cool breeze, and the vibrant colours of the sunset made me feel at peace. It was as if time had slowed down, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the beauty around me. I enjoyed every moment, feeling grateful for the chance to escape from the hectic pace of city life. The picturesque scenery, combined with the refreshing atmosphere, made it one of the most beautiful places I have ever visited.
Idea generation for this Candidate task card / Cue card topic:
Sometimes we come across places that leave a lasting impression because of their stunning and captivating views. Here are some ideas that you can use to describe a place you visited that has beautiful views:
1. Banff National Park, Canada:
Located in Alberta, Banff National Park is famous for its majestic mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and stunning valleys. I visited this place last summer to immerse myself in nature and go hiking with friends. The views of Lake Louise with its turquoise water surrounded by snow-capped peaks are absolutely breathtaking. I loved how the beauty of the natural landscape made me feel at peace.
2. Santorini, Greece:
Santorini is a beautiful island in the Aegean Sea known for its white-washed buildings and stunning sunsets. I visited it during a vacation to experience the iconic views of the caldera and the ocean. The sight of the sun setting over the blue-domed churches against the backdrop of the deep blue sea is simply mesmerizing. The contrast of the white houses against the vibrant sunset colors made it truly unforgettable.
3. Great Ocean Road, Australia:
This coastal route offers some of the most spectacular views of the rugged coastline and the famous Twelve Apostles rock formations. I took this road trip with my family to enjoy the scenic beauty and explore the natural wonders. The endless ocean views and dramatic cliffs were awe-inspiring, making me feel connected to nature.
4. Machu Picchu, Peru:
An ancient Incan city located high in the Andes Mountains, Machu Picchu is renowned for its historical significance and incredible views. I visited it as part of an adventurous trek, and reaching the summit was truly rewarding. The panoramic view of the ancient ruins surrounded by lush green mountains felt like stepping into a different world.
5. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam:
Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its emerald waters and towering limestone islands. I visited it on a cruise to explore the picturesque bay and the caves. The karst landscape dotted with fishing villages was so peaceful and serene. I felt captivated by the tranquility and natural charm of the bay.
6. Grand Canyon, USA:
One of the most famous natural wonders, the Grand Canyon offers breathtaking views of layered red rocks that stretch for miles. I visited it during a road trip with friends and was amazed by the sheer scale and beauty of the canyon. Watching the sunset paint the rocks in shades of orange and red was a truly memorable experience.
7. Amalfi Coast, Italy:
Known for its dramatic cliffs, colorful villages, and crystal-clear waters, the Amalfi Coast is a paradise for travelers. I visited it during a summer holiday to explore the charming coastal towns. The views from the cliffside roads overlooking the Mediterranean Sea were absolutely stunning, making it one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen.
8. Mount Fuji, Japan:
This iconic volcano is known for its symmetrical shape and snow-capped peak. I visited it during the cherry blossom season to capture the beauty of the mountain surrounded by blooming sakura. The harmonious blend of natural beauty and cultural significance made the experience unforgettable.
9. Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia:
This park is famous for its cascading lakes and lush greenery. I visited it during a nature photography trip and was captivated by the interconnected lakes and waterfalls. The turquoise water and wooden walkways through the forest made it feel like a fairy tale setting.
10. Taj Mahal, India:
A symbol of love and one of the most famous monuments in the world, the Taj Mahal's white marble structure glows beautifully under the morning sun. I visited it with my family to witness its architectural grandeur. The intricate carvings and serene gardens made it a truly beautiful experience.
These ideas cover a range of places with beautiful views. You can choose any of these or use your own experience to describe a memorable visit to a picturesque location.
Part 3: Detailed Discussion/ Two-way Discussion.
Discussion topic: The beauty industry.
Q. Do you agree that most beauty products are a waste of money?
Answer: Well, to be fair, I wouldn't say most beauty products are entirely a waste. Many products genuinely help people feel more confident and comfortable in their own skin. However, I do think some products make exaggerated claims, leading people to spend money on things they don't really need. So, it really depends on whether the product provides genuine benefits or is simply marketed cleverly.
Q. How does the beauty industry advertise its products so successfully?
Answer: I'd say the beauty industry is successful in advertising mainly because it taps into people's emotions and desires. They often use celebrity endorsements, glamorous imagery, and persuasive language to create the idea that their products can enhance attractiveness, confidence, or social acceptance. Plus, social media platforms and influencers have significantly boosted the industry's reach, making it easier than ever to target specific demographics effectively.
Q. What do you think of the view that beauty products should not be advertised to children?
Answer: Honestly, I strongly agree with this viewpoint. Children are particularly impressionable and vulnerable to unrealistic beauty standards. Advertising beauty products to young people can lead them to worry unnecessarily about their appearance, harming their self-esteem and confidence. Instead, it's important for children to grow up focusing on values like health, character, and self-acceptance rather than external beauty standards.
Discussion topic: Beauty and culture.
Q. Why do many people equate youth with beauty?
Answer: Well, people often associate youth with beauty because society and media continually reinforce this idea. Youth is generally portrayed as vibrant, energetic, and physically attractive, making people believe it's inherently desirable. Plus, biologically, youthful features are often subconsciously linked to good health and vitality, reinforcing the perception that youth equals beauty.
Q. Do you think that being beautiful could affect a person's success in life?
Answer: Yes, to some extent, beauty can influence a person's success. Studies suggest that attractive people often get more positive attention, which can lead to better job opportunities and social interactions. However, I think it's important to stress that beauty alone isn't a guaranteed ticket to success; personal qualities like intelligence, skill, character, and determination are much more important in the long run.
Q. Why might society's ideas about beauty change over time?
Answer: That's an interesting question. Society's concepts of beauty change due to various factors like cultural shifts, globalization, media influence, and historical context. For instance, beauty ideals that were popular decades ago can differ dramatically from current trends because attitudes and values evolve with time. Nowadays, increased diversity and greater awareness about inclusivity are slowly changing traditional beauty standards, making society more open-minded about what is considered beautiful.
Vocabulary for this Candidate task card / Cue card topic:
When describing a place with beautiful views, it's essential to use vivid and descriptive language. Here are some moderately advanced words and phrases that will help you effectively express your experience:
Panoramic view – A wide and unobstructed view of an extensive area.
Breathtaking scenery – Extremely beautiful and impressive landscape.
Pristine – In its original condition; unspoiled or untouched.
Mesmerizing – Captivating or holding the attention as if by magic.
Idyllic – Extremely peaceful, picturesque, or charming.
Picturesque – Visually attractive, often in a quaint or charming way.
Vibrant colors – Bright and striking colors that stand out.
Tranquil – Calm, peaceful, and serene.
Majestic – Grand and impressive in appearance.
Serene – Calm and untroubled; peaceful.
Scenic route – A path that offers beautiful and impressive views.
Untouched nature – Natural surroundings that are preserved and unaffected by human activity.
Refreshing atmosphere – An environment that revitalizes the senses.
Spectacular sunset – A stunning and impressive display of colors during sunset.
Crystal-clear water – Water that is so clear that you can see through it.
Rugged landscape – A naturally rough or uneven terrain.
Enchanting – Charming and captivating, as if casting a spell.
Secluded spot – An area that is remote and quiet, away from crowds.
Awe-inspiring – Something that fills you with a sense of wonder and admiration.
Picturesque horizon – The line where the earth meets the sky, often looking stunningly beautiful.
Captivating vista – A beautiful view that grabs your attention.
Golden sand – Sand that appears golden, often found on beaches.
Soothing waves – Gentle, calming movements of the sea.
If you prepare for the topic "Describe a place you visited that has beautiful views", you should be able to talk about the following topics as well:
1) Describe a place that you have visited recently.
2) Describe a famous tourist spot in your country.
3) Describe a place you would recommend a foreigner should visit in your country.
4) Describe a naturally beautiful place.
5) Describe a beautiful place you would like to visit.
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