Cue card questions, used in speaking tests like the IELTS or Duolingo English exam, are prompts that guide individuals to speak on a specific topic for one or more minutes. These questions are usually written on a small card (cue card) and include the main topic along with several bullet points to structure the response.
You can follow these guidelines while answering the cue card questions that you come across in your English Proficiency tests like IELTS,TOEFL or Duolingo etc.
Instructions for Completing Cue Card Questions
Use of Tenses
Pay careful attention to the appropriate use of tenses in your responses. Ensure consistency in your verb tenses throughout your speech.
Comprehensive Responses
Your response should address all the cues provided in the prompt. Don’t leave any part of the question unanswered.
Speaking Duration
Aim to speak for at least one minute to demonstrate your proficiency. Make sure your response is detailed and well-structured.
Drawing from Personal Experiences
The topics for cue card questions are based on your own life experiences and observations. Be prepared to recall and narrate personal anecdotes or those of others.
Imagination
If you encounter a question for which you lack prior knowledge or experience, don’t hesitate to use your imagination to create a plausible scenario or story.
Stay Informed
It’s advisable to stay informed about current events and various topics such as books, animals, plants, art, movies, outings, culture, and celebrations. Expanding your knowledge and observations will help you provide richer and more informed responses.
Practice Writing and Speaking
Practice writing answers to similar questions available online, and then practice speaking them aloud. This will help you refine your spoken English skills and boost your confidence.
By following these instructions, you can prepare effectively for English proficiency tests and excel in delivering well-structured and grammatically accurate responses to cue card questions based on your own life experiences and observations.
Sample Cue card Question Examples
1.Describe a memorable journey you have taken.
- Where did you go?
- Who did you go with?
- What made it memorable?
2.Talk about a person who has had a significant influence on your life
- Who is the person?
- How did you meet them?
- What impact have they had on you?
3.Discuss your favorite book, movie, or TV show.
- What is it called?
- What is the story about?
- Why do you like it?
4.Describe a time when you faced a challenging situation and how you resolved it.
- What was the situation?
- What steps did you take to solve it?
- What did you learn from this experience?
5.Talk about a hobby or activity you enjoy in your free time.
- What is the hobby/activity?
- How did you get into it?
- Why do you find it enjoyable?
6.Describe a memorable meal or dish you’ve had.
- What was the meal/dish?
- Where did you eat it?
- What made it memorable?
7.Discuss a historical event that you find interesting.
- What event are you talking about?
- When and where did it happen?
- Why do you find it interesting?
8.Talk about a famous person you admire.
- Who is the person?
- What are their achievements?
- How have they inspired you?
9.Describe a place you would like to visit in the future.
- Where is this place?
- What attracts you to it?
- When do you plan to go there?
10.Discuss the impact of technology on our lives.
- How has technology changed the way we live?
- What are the positive and negative aspects of this change?
- How do you personally feel about it?
11.Describe a memorable event from your childhood.
- What was the event?
- How old were you at the time?
- Why is it memorable to you?
12.Talk about a current social or environmental issue that concerns you.
- What is the issue?
- Why is it important?
- What can individuals or society do to address it?
These cue card questions cover a range of topics and require test-takers to express themselves fluently and coherently in English. They assess both speaking and critical thinking skills.