IELTS Speaking Part 2: Cue Card

What is IELTS Speaking Part 2?

It’s a 2-minute section where a student gets a question with some follow-ups/ideas and is given 1 minute to prepare the idea and when the time is over, the candidate has to speak for 2 minutes on the topic. 

It’s the most scary thing for the students who find it extremely tough to answer. 

BUT…

YOU CAN SPEAK FOR 2 MINUTES WITHOUT HESITATION. 

Read about IELTS Speaking Part 1 and how to talk about it. Click here. 

How to Prepare for IELTS Speaking Part 2

1. Practice Speaking Ex Tempore (naturally):

   • Record Yourself: Practice speaking on various topics without preparation.
   • Analyze Your Performance: Listen to your recordings to identify areas for improvement, such as fluency, vocabulary, and pronunciation.
     
     

2. Structure Your Talk:

   • Introduction: Briefly introduce the topic.
   • Body: Develop your main points with relevant examples.
   • Conclusion: Summarize your main points.
     
     

3. Use a Variety of Language:

   • Use Complex Sentences: Use a mix of simple and complex sentences to demonstrate your language skills.
   • Use a Wide Range of Vocabulary: Use a variety of vocabulary to express your ideas clearly and concisely.
   • Use Idioms and Phrasal Verbs: Incorporate idioms and phrasal verbs to make your speech more natural and engaging.
     
     

4. Practice Time Management:

   • Use a Timer: Practice speaking for 2 minutes to ensure you stay within the time limit.
   • Pace Yourself: Speak at a natural pace and avoid rushing.

Common Topics for IELTS Speaking Part 2

• People: Describe a person you admire, a memorable person, a famous person, etc.
• Places: Describe a place you’ve visited, a place you’d like to visit, a city, a country, etc.
• Objects: Describe an object you like, a gift you’ve received, a technological gadget, etc.
• Events: Describe a memorable event, a festival, a celebration, etc.
• Experiences: Describe a positive or negative experience, a challenging experience, a risky experience, etc.

Tips for a Successful IELTS Speaking Part 2

• Stay Calm and Focused: Take a deep breath and focus on the topic.
• Use Clear and Concise Language: Avoid rambling and stick to the point.
• Use Signposting Language: Structure your talk using phrases like “Firstly,” “Secondly,” and “Finally.”
• Practice Active Listening: Pay attention to the cue card and use the information provided.
• Be Enthusiastic: Show your interest in the topic.

NOTE – Round-up Questions: Sometimes the examiner may ask 1-2 round questions after the cue card and before IELTS Speaking Part 3. The questions are asked from the answer to your cue card. 

Following these tips and practising regularly can improve your IELTS Speaking Part 2 skills and achieve a high score.

Read about to sail through IELTS Speaking Part 3: Two Way Discussion and leave the exam hall with a big smile on your face. Click here. 

Remember, practice IELTS Speaking Part 2 like the exam: take a cue card with a specific topic and take one minute to prepare your talk. Speak for two minutes to speak on the subject.