IELTS Cue Card: Describe Your First Day at School

IELTS Cue Card: Describe Your First Day at School: A cue card is a topic that you are provided to speak on for your IELTS speaking exam. The topics can be varied and distinct, a few examples of possible topics are-

• Describe a plant that has unique survival strategies.

• Describe a scientific discovery related to plants.

• Describe an interesting fact about nature you recently learned.

• Describe a place where rare plants can be found.

You don't need to memorize all the cue cards you can find; what you need to do is learn how to answer any cue card. Today, the topic we are taking is ‘Describe Your First Day at School’.

Understanding the IELTS Cue Card Topic

Before we get to answering the cue card, first we need to make sure we understand what the cue card is asking and how we can effectively tackle the task ahead of us.

IELTS cue cards usually come with a few bullet points which are mandatory for you to cover. For example, we have taken, these the types of points you can expect to encounter-

• Who did you go with?

• How did you feel?

• What did you do?

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This Story also Contains

1. Understanding the IELTS Cue Card Topic
2. Importance of Cue Card Topics in IELTS Speaking
3. Analyzing the Topic: "Describe Your First Day at School"
4. Key Points to Include in Your Response
5. Structuring Your Answer for Maximum Impact
6. Vocabulary and Expressions for Describing Your First Day
7. Words to Describe Emotions and Feelings
8. Phrases to Describe Events and Activities
9. Tips for Answering the Cue Card Effectively
10. Sample Answer: Describe Your First Day at School
11. Follow-Up Questions for the Topic
12. Practice and Preparation for the IELTS Speaking Test
13. Recap of Key Strategies for Describing Your First Day
14. Conclusion
15. About the Author:

These pointers will help you get a better understanding of what the examiner is expecting in a response from you. For example, if a pointer is-

‘Did you have fun?’

The answer should be something along the lines of-

‘It started off pretty difficult since it was the first time I had stayed away from my parents for that long but by the end, I had found out that school could be pretty fun.’

Saying something else not related to the topic will deduct your bands, on the basis that you did not understand the topic correctly and don't have a grasp of the language.

Importance of Cue Card Topics in IELTS Speaking

Cue cards are the second part of the speaking test, passing it is crucial to get a good band score on your IELTS exam. Not being able to answer the cue card properly will leave a negative impression on the examiner, to avoid this you should practice varied types of cue cards.

You may feel anxious about attempting and the way to answer it, it's rather easy and we shall make that for you if you follow the given strategies.

Analyzing the Topic: "Describe Your First Day at School"

Let's see how you can respond to this cue card, for this you would need to analyze the topic. You will have one minute to prepare a speech of two minutes. During this time you should analyze the points given to you and form the story you will tell.

There is no uniform way for you to prepare cause your preparation will depend on the type of topic you get, but here are a few tricks that could always work-

• Read the cue card topic and points carefully.

• Think of good vocabulary words you can use to enhance your speech.

• Write down the key points for your speech and a few vocabulary words (describing words) on how you would expand them.

Key Points to Include in Your Response

So, for the example, we had taken these are the key points you can include to have your answer leave a favourable impression-

• When and Where it Happened

• Activities and Experiences on the First Day

• Interaction with Teachers and Classmates

Let us see how we can frame an impeccable answer.

1. Setting the Scene: When and Where It Happened

The response to your speech should be structured like a story, so the first point will be used to set the scene for your speech. You can say things like-

• It was during the winter of 2010 in my hometown of Janakpuri, right in front of the gates of hell that would plunge my day into a nightmare away from the sanctuary I call home.

Or

• It was the first day of spring, bright orange leaves were covering the ground and fresh new leaves were starting to grow on the trees around me, much like my excitement for the new place that would be my new normal.

2. Describing Your Emotions and Feelings

In the above examples, you can see that the season was used to emphasize a particular emotion both are made up, but it sounds impressive and shows you have a great understanding of the language.

The season of winter portrays a feeling of despair and depression thus starting a statement that accentuates the emotion that the child did not want to attend the school, this can be continued to show how the kid grew to love going to school, but that is a decision for later.

In the second example, the example of spring was used to show a new beginning, in this the speaker is trying to portray that the student is looking forward to school.

Using literary tools like this makes your tale sound more emotional than it actually is plus also takes up time, and along with making a favourable impression on the examiner, there is no reason not to use it.

3. Activities and Experiences on the First Day

Under this point you will have to talk about the activities that took place on your first day, during this time in your story you will further elaborate on the beginning you had established and plant the seeds you would use to tell your conclusion, in the example we had taken previously if you had taken the winter approach you say how you didn't enjoy them but could appreciate how hard the teacher was trying to maintain the class, this would help you in setting the groundwork for the finale and show how you got there as well.

4. Interaction with Teachers and Classmates

If this were to be your final point this is where you would end your story, talking about the staff at the school and the children with you. Since this is the finale, this is the last moment you have to show off your vocabulary, make sure you can integrate some heavy words in this section.

From the example we had taken, this is where you would be showing how the hard work of the staff moved you to your core and you began looking forward to school.

Structuring Your Answer for Maximum Impact

Structure in a speech is an important factor that will dictate how well your answer is received. As previously stated, you should structure your answer like a story. According to this approach, once you have introduced a plot point, expand on it before going to the next point. If you don't want to expand on it immediately, make sure you lay the groundwork for the delivery of the explanation later by way of a question or thought. Here is how you can structure your responses most effectively-

1. Introduction: A Brief Overview of Your First Day

A good introduction should include the following in this case-

• A brief note of gratitude for the fact that you were allowed to talk on the topic.

• Something about your personality as a kid (this will be the basis of your expression)

• How your first day was and how you felt?

So according to that, this is what your introduction should be like-

I would like to thank you for allowing me to speak on such a fond memory of my formative years. I have always wanted to put this event into words but never had a particular reason to do so, I still remember how I used to be a scaredy cat, afraid of his own shadow. I don't exactly remember why I was like that, but the feeling of not wanting to leave my house is still vivid in my mind. I recall I was crying like a baby, and the staff had to pull me away from my parents to take me to class.

2. Body: Elaborating on Key Details and Experiences

This is where you will elaborate on the base you have set up, with the example we had used previously, we would have to show how and why, so let's see how you can frame it-

It was difficult for the staff to approach a crying menace, plus I was not alone, almost every kid there was like me, but there is just so much someone can cry before they realize they can't get what they want, so while I was still sobbing I could see how the staff and teachers were trying their best to manage the class. Their efforts moved me and to lessen their burden, while I couldn't do anything to manage the class, I could just not be a problem.

This one might not be what you say exactly but it does serve as a good example of how the body should look like.

3. Conclusion: Reflecting on the Day's Impact

This is where you will be ending the story, the story you had expanded on in the body part will be wrapped up with a nice little bow, this is how the ending could look like in this case.

After I went home that day, after doing activities like paper ball making, clay dough moulding, and some writing and arithmetic, I thought I wouldn't want to go back again, but after some time at my place, I realized how much fun I had throughout the day and the feeling that I was looking forward to school the next day.

Vocabulary and Expressions for Describing Your First Day

Vocabulary is one of the most important aspects of your speaking test, knowing the right words to use is imperative, here is a list of good words you can use, some of which you may have come across in the article-

1. Emotions & Feelings

• Excited – "I was excited to meet new classmates."

• Nervous – "I felt nervous about making friends."

• Anxious – "I was a bit anxious about finding my classroom."

• Overwhelmed – "There were so many new faces, and I felt overwhelmed."

• Curious – "I was curious about what I would learn."

• Eager – "I was eager to explore the school."

2. Meeting New People

• Break the ice – "Our teacher played a game to break the ice."

• Get along with – "I got along with my seatmate instantly."

• Make new friends – "I made a few new friends during lunch."

• Introduce oneself – "I introduced myself to the class."

• First impression – "My first impression of my teacher was that she was very kind."

3. School Environment & Activities

• Bustling with activity – "The school hallways were bustling with activity."

• Lively atmosphere – "The classroom had a lively atmosphere."

• Orientation session – "We had an orientation session in the morning."

• Find my way around – "I had trouble finding my way around at first."

• Assigned seating – "We were given assigned seating in class."

• Follow the timetable – "I struggled to follow the timetable on the first day."

4. Classroom Experience

• Pay attention – "I tried my best to pay attention to the teacher."

• Settle in – "It took me some time to settle in."

• New routine – "I had to adjust to a completely new routine."

• Raise my hand – "I was too shy to raise my hand."

• Listen carefully – "I listened carefully to all the instructions."

Words to Describe Emotions and Feelings

1. Positive Emotions

• Excited – thrilled, elated, overjoyed, ecstatic

• Happy – cheerful, delighted, content, joyful

• Confident – empowered, self-assured, bold, optimistic

• Grateful – appreciative, thankful, blessed

• Proud – accomplished, fulfilled, satisfied

• Calm – relaxed, peaceful, at ease, serene

• Hopeful – encouraged, positive, inspired

2. Negative Emotions

• Sad – heartbroken, miserable, gloomy, melancholic

• Angry – frustrated, irritated, resentful, furious

• Disappointed – disheartened, discouraged, let down

• Guilty – regretful, ashamed, remorseful

• Lonely – isolated, abandoned, empty

• Fearful – anxious, worried, uneasy, terrified

• Embarrassed – awkward, ashamed, self-conscious

3. Mixed or Complex Emotions

• Nervous – apprehensive, jittery, tense, hesitant

• Confused – uncertain, puzzled, baffled, overwhelmed

• Surprised – shocked, amazed, startled, stunned

• Hopeful yet doubtful – conflicted, uncertain, torn

• Excited but anxious – eager, anticipatory, restless

Phrases to Describe Events and Activities

1. General Descriptions of Events

• "The event was a huge success."

• "It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience."

• "The atmosphere was lively and energetic."

• "The day was filled with excitement and joy."

• "It turned out better than expected."

2. Describing a School or Work Event

• "We started with an engaging introduction session."

• "The meeting was productive and insightful."

• "The presentation was informative and well-prepared."

• "The workshop provided hands-on experience."

• "I participated in various activities that were both fun and educational."

3. Describing a Celebration or Party

• "The decorations were stunning and beautifully arranged."

• "Music and laughter filled the air."

• "The guests were in high spirits."

• "The food was delicious and plentiful."

• "We danced the night away."

4. Describing a Sports or Outdoor Activity

• "The competition was intense and thrilling."

• "We pushed ourselves to the limit."

• "The weather was perfect for the activity."

• "The team worked together seamlessly."

• "The hike offered breathtaking views."

5. Describing a Travel or Vacation Experience

• "The trip was an unforgettable adventure."

• "The scenery was absolutely breathtaking."

• "I immersed myself in the local culture."

• "The journey was smooth and comfortable."

• "Every moment was filled with excitement and discovery."

Tips for Answering the Cue Card Effectively

Now that you know which words you should use and how to use them, here are a few extra tips you can use to answer any cue card in the exam-

1. How to Use a Storytelling Approach

The storytelling approach is one of the best ways to leave an outstanding impression on the examiner. Making a good plot is not very easy, but once you practice, it will start coming naturally to you.

A good way of learning how to do it is to read short stories, it will show you how to keep the audience interested in such a short time to work with.

2. Maintaining Fluency and Coherence

The storytelling approach will help you leave a favourable impression, but it will be useless if you don't speak fluently or forget the plot halfway through and break your coherence, here is how you can fix it-

• Fluency- this can be fixed rather easily by recording your responses and listening to them along with judging them with an objective and open mind.

• Coherence- repeated practice is the only thing that will make you better at coherence.

3. Avoiding Common Mistakes

• Avoid babbling

• Avoid using native language words

• Avoid repetition

• Avoid stammering

All of these are common mistakes that are made by everyone, we have already told how to solve these in the above paragraphs. Make sure you have gone through these thoroughly and avoid these mistakes at all costs.

Sample Answer: Describe Your First Day at School

Students preparing for the IELTS speaking test must practice various cue card topics and the related vocabulary words to score high bands. Dedicated 15 minutes of daily speaking practice will ensure students score high bands in the IELTS speaking section.

Example 1: A Memorable First Day in Primary School

I would like to thank you for allowing me to talk about such a fond memory of my childhood. I had wanted to brew this tale into words for a long time but never had the opportunity or reason to do so. I still remember how excited I was to go to a new place, my parents had told me that I could meet children my age and make friends, and my enthusiasm was boundless, to the point I could not sleep the night before.

The next day we were about 30 minutes late cause I slept in, I was sad and thought I would not make it in time but somehow we did, the teachers and staff were standing at the gate to welcome the new children, and some of the children there were crying cause they didn't want to be away from their parents, I did not get where they were coming from but I did not care, I had rushed to the class, and was seated, it was some time after that, the class was in session. That day we learned some basic numbers and alphabets, along with doing some fun activities like clay molding, paper crushing, and playing in the sandbox. It was the most fun I had at the time.

Thinking back to it, the time I spent in primary school is the most memorable period in my memory, I wish I could live that life again but, such wishes don't come true, and even if I somehow was able to go back to that time, I doubt I could enjoy it that much, the things that surprised or excited me are just normal now, so I have to move forward, but I do hope I can find a place just as fun at some point later in my life.

Example 2: A Nervous Start to High School

I would like to thank you for allowing me to talk about such a fond memory of my childhood. I had wanted to brew this tale into words for a long time but never had the opportunity or reason to do so. I still remember how nervous I was on the first day of High School.

I didn't have many friends during middle school and the ones I did have were all going to a different high school, add to this the insecurity of a teenager about their entire existence, and a severe lack of confidence, I was not expecting a good time. And just as I had expected no one sitting beside me was interested in talking or approaching me, thinking back, I should have approached them, but at the time I did not have the confidence to do so. I was preparing to spend the next few years alone when our teacher told us that we had to pick a club to join. I didn't have much hope there either since I'm not very sporty, but there was one club that caught my eye, computer coding. I always had an interest in it and this would be my chance to learn more about it and socialize a bit as well.

My application was accepted and I was able to join the club and make some friends. My high school days are a fond memory for me precisely because of the friends I made that day, and even if we are in different places in our lives now, we are always connected one way or the other.

Follow-Up Questions for the Topic

After the cue card is completed, in the last part of the IELTS speaking test, follow-up questions are asked based on the cue card topic.

Common Questions Asked by the Examiner

• Do you think first-day experiences are important?

• How can schools make first days more comfortable for students?

• What changes have you noticed in schools compared to when you started?

Tips for Answering Follow-Up Questions

• Keeping responses relevant and concise

• Using examples to support your answer

Practice and Preparation for the IELTS Speaking Test

Students aiming to score high band score in the IELTS speaking section should make diligent efforts in preparing and following all the tips and strategies to sound confident and fluent on the main IELTS speaking exam day.

1. How to Practice Cue Card Topics Effectively

Some of the top tips to prepare effectively for the cue cards are as follows:

• Make a list of various topics that you need to prepare.

• Prepare a vocabulary list that matches the topics you have listed.

• Try crafting on-the-spot stories and do not think about personal experiences if you do not have any related to the topic.

• Do mirror practice to gain confidence?

2. Resources for Improving Your Speaking Skills

Some of the best and recommended resources to excel in IELTS speaking are as follows:

• Listen to authenticated English podcasts (of native speakers), this will help you with accuracy in pronunciation and natural accent.

• Read authenticated English newspapers, and books of your interest on varied topics to enhance your vocabulary and thinking skills. This will help you get more ideas on any given topic.

Recap of Key Strategies for Describing Your First Day

The best ways as mentioned above to describe your first day will be:

• Give an impressive introduction.

• Plot your story and start detailing it with describing words and phrases.

• Give a proper conclusion adding emotions and feelings to it.

Conclusion

As a student preparing for the IELTS speaking cue card, students must make sure to practice on various topics, enhance their vocabulary, be aware of the band descriptors and most of all be confident in what they are speaking.

About the Author:

Pooja Aggarwal is an experienced trainer with over 15 years of expertise in helping students achieve their educational goals. With a degree in Education, she focuses on clear, patient, and personalized instruction. Her approach has successfully guided students from diverse backgrounds, preparing them for both Academic and General Training modules of various exams in a supportive and engaging environment.