Describe a place/ country in which you would like to live/ work for short period of time: IELTS Exam Cue Card

Bhargavee Sisodia

06 Jul 2024

Most study-abroad students prefer to take the IELTS test before they apply for admissions and visa approvals. However, some students are unwilling to take the IELTS exam for studying abroad as many universities do not keep it as the criteria to enroll in a program. In this context, most study abroad experts, visa officers, and counselors will always recommend you take the IELTS exam so that you go through a hassle-free approval and admission process. 

The IELTS test will assess your communication skills on aspects such as clarity, articulateness, coherence in speaking, active listening, vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. There are four sections for the IELTS test: reading, writing, listening, and speaking test. To give your best in all the sections, you must be confident and opt for IELTS exam preparation as early as possible. For that, you can take regular IELTS practice tests, and IELTS sample tests on your own or you can connect with our IELTS expert team at DVIVID to excel in the IELTS test.

In this blog, we will mostly reflect on the IELTS speaking test part of the IELTS test. it is a bit tricky for people who are unfamiliar with the structure, and format on how to address it. In the IELTS speaking test, there are three sections in which you have to concentrate equally. To make it easier, we are breaking it down below:

1. Introduction - This is where you will introduce yourself to the examiner. To lead the way, the examiner will inquire face-to-face about your background, family, etc.
2. Cue Card Task - In this 2nd part of the IELTS speaking test, you will speak about the assigned topic for two minutes.
3. Discussion round: The third part of the IELTS speaking test shares its association with the 2nd round as the examiner asks questions based on what you spoke. 

How to respond to the IELTS exam cue card task?

To familiarize you with the cue card task of the IELTS exam, we are taking the topic “Describe a place/country in which you would like to live/ work for short period of time”. Before looking into what questions to address, try to include an introduction and a conclusion to whatever topic you choose to speak on. Also, use the paper to note down the points to include in the speaking test. Now, let's get back to what to answer in this specific topic:

1. Introduction: Speak one or two lines about your intention to move to a different place/ country. You can mention the name of the place too.
2. Key highlights: For this part, you will specify answers to a few prompts:
3. Which place/ country is it and what is it famous for?
4. What kind of work would you want to do?/ What do you want to do there?
5. When and for how long would you like to move there?
6. Why would you want to move there?
7. What are your feelings on your decision to move there?

Conclusion: End your speaking session with a conclusion where you recapitulate about your ideal living place/country, and include a positive note.

IELTS Exam Sample 1: Describe a place/ country in which you would like to live/ work for short period of time.

Introduction:

It has been two years since setting my mind on moving to Bangalore to attain hands-on experience for a few months after my studies. I am excited to live among a community of young talent as the city is so enriched. 

Which place/ country is it and what is it famous for?

Bangalore, also known as the ‘Silicon Valley of India,” is a bustling city situated in India that has been attracting a lot of working professionals, especially young graduates, from all corners of the country. Having a varied range of prospects, especially tech-based, and some of the best educational institutes, it is a hub of learning and career development. 

What kind of work would you want to do?

If I consider my specialization, which is an MBA in human resources management, I am keen to join as an HR Intern in a tech-based company. Well, just because my favored role needs managing and recruiting people, I will have abundant scope to interact with employees and prospective clients. I wish to plan teambuilding activities and events so that the well-being of the team isn’t compromised. 

When and for how long would you like to move there?

I am currently in the last semester of my master’s and planning to move there for a month or three to complete the mandatory internship in the HR domain. 

Why would you want to move there?

Bangalore’s flourishing tech landscape will let me gain flexible entry into any startup or company since I am already on my way to graduating in human resources management. I have heard from my cousins and uncles who work there that the work culture is very conducive to smooth growth, and that I will have the chance to familiarize myself with the latest tech developments, and trends.

What are your feelings on your decision to move there?

I am positive and hopeful of learning and contributing at the same time when I secure the internship. I can only imagine how rewarding it will turn out to be. Because I will get to change people’s lives and promote productivity by introducing activities to enhance the company culture. Also, as a nature lover and foodie, I will have a good time on weekends as I am planning to explore the hotspots of the city, including the gardens, parks, and eateries. 

Conclusion

My thoughts on moving to Bangalore can only be justified after I experience it in real time. However, whatever the folks are saying about its culture and environment, I am presuming I will have a good work-life balance, and exalt the company’s value in Bangalore. 

IELTS Exam Sample 2: Describe a place/ country in which you would like to live/ work for short period of time.

Introduction:

I was ambitious as a kid, and still the same as a grown-up. This has a lot to do with my dream of 

living abroad in the hope of pursuing a study program, at least for some years.   

Which place/ country is it and what is it famous for?

I have decided this place to be Germany, situated in Europe, as it has a lot many STEM programs with scholarships and a high-quality education system in place. Although it boasts of having stellar educational institutions, a good work environment, and a healthcare system, there are stunning natural hotspots for people who are nature lovers.

What do you want to do there?

Having chosen Germany, I am thinking of studying Biochemistry at an institute. I came across this destination as a very good place for progressing in my career due to its educational infrastructure. And, I have already taken counseling with the career support team in that institute who confirmed that my requirements are well-aligned. 

When and for how long would you like to move there?

I am only planning to move there for two years, during which I will gain both theoretical and practical training through the university placement program. 

Why would you want to move there?

I have an objective of completing my master’s in Germany. Various prestigious universities with quality education have contributed to its popularity as the most favored study-abroad destinations.  I was particularly fascinated with its affordable cost of living, and safety.

What are your feelings on your decision to move there?

I feel exhilarated to make it one of the best phases of my life. I have high regard for their rich learning environment and peaceful living conditions. Because of these, I will be motivated to enjoy a stress-free time while balancing my studies and fostering skills, both professional and social. Mostly, I can’t wait to experience the cultural diversity of that land. 

Conclusion

I believe enrolling in the dream institute at my dream place will give me a lot more than I can imagine now. This will be a turning point in my life, and Germany will be remembered for helping me step out of my comfort zone. 

Follow-up Questions for IELTS Exam Cue Card Task

In the last part of the speaking test of the IELTS exam, you will face questions from the examiner based on the topic from the cue card task. You will have a one-to-one discussion where you will be giving lengthy responses justifying your answer. For this sample topic, we will walk you through a few sample questions that could be asked in the IELTS test:

Question 1: What according to you are the most important reasons why people move to other places/ countries?

Answer 1: While people travel for vacations or take business trips, they usually last for a few days or weeks. But, it is often usual nowadays that people prefer moving and traveling to other cities, and countries in search of better opportunities. Some go abroad for study purposes while others favor such destinations for better work and living conditions. Also, it has been found that both young and adults target countries where work-life balance with good pay is promised. 

Question 2: Which country would you choose for working if you get the chance?

Answer 2: Though numerous developed nations offer excellent facilities, I would prefer shifting to Switzerland because of its finest education system, and financial flexibility while still pursuing studies. Also, being a multicultural hub, and having scenic landscapes makes it a favorable location to enjoy life. Even for working professionals, there are incentives such as health insurance, caregiving leaves, and wellness programs that allow for a healthy lifestyle, and settling without worries.

Question 3: What is the difference in criteria when young people and old people choose a country to live in?

Answer 3: When young people decide on a country to stay, they look for study opportunities, and closeness to malls, entertainment, cafes, and cultural and social places, where they can hang out, meet with new people, and have a vibrant life. Whereas, old people generally look for places where they can have access to healthcare and safety. Living in a neighborhood where retired people live is crucial for their well-being as they can bond with those of their age, and live in a community. They also prioritize living in the outskirts, and not in noisy places as they want to live in peace. 

Question 4: Is it good that Indian students are choosing to work abroad while pursuing their studies there? Do they receive the support of their parents?

Answer 4: I support the fact that Indian students are turning out to be wiser and smarter by opting for moving abroad for academic growth. This is helping all of them to hone their abilities, and skills to become proficient individuals and responsible global citizens. There are many people from Asian countries, including Indians, who are leading innovations and advancements in every sector, whether in business, healthcare, science, technology, or creative fields. 

Unlike past decades, Indian parents, from all social and economic classes, are well aware of the benefits of studying and working abroad. With accessibility to the internet, they are convinced that how a study abroad program can facilitate improving their children’s lives, eventually enhancing their potential to acquire wealth, status, and success. They are also seen to support their students in obtaining student loans so that they receive better opportunities for studies and exposure. 

Conclusion:

D-VIVID’s team is ready to help with your IELTS preparation. You won't have to feel nervous about how to attempt any section of the IELTS test because the expert IELTS language trainers will give you guidance on a one-to-one basis. With the help of IELTS sample tests, you will have regular practice and immediate feedback. You can expect us to aid you with IELTS speaking topics and the right ways to answer IELTS speaking questions. So, take the first step in connecting with us.