March 17, 2026 - IELTS BAND7

CUE CARD – Describe an important thing you learnt but not at school or college.

March 17, 2026 IELTS Research

Speaking – Part 2 (Cue Card)

Describe an important thing you learnt but not at school or college.

You should say:

When did you learn it?

How did you learn it?

Why did you think it was important to learn it?

How you felt when you learnt it?

Sample Answer

One important lesson I’ve learned outside of school is the power of resilience. It’s like learning to bounce back when life throws challenges at you. In real life, I’ve faced difficult situations and setbacks that textbooks can’t prepare you for. It taught me the value of not giving up and staying strong in tough times. It’s about facing problems with a positive attitude and not letting them bring you down. This lesson has been crucial in my life, helping me navigate through various challenges, stay motivated, and grow as a person. It’s like a secret superpower that everyone should cultivate.

Speaking – Part 3 (Follow-up questions)
Here are some examples of follow-up questions that the examiner may ask during your speaking (part 3) related to the cue card ‘Describe an important thing you learnt but not at school or college.’

Q1. What can children learn from parents?

Parents teach kids important values like being kind and honest. They also show them how to do everyday things like cooking and cleaning. Parents pass on family traditions and help kids learn about their culture.

Q2. Is it necessary for adults to learn new skills?

Yes, grown-ups should learn new things. It helps with work, dealing with new technology, and personal growth. Learning new skills as adults also keeps our minds active, boosts confidence, and opens up new opportunities, making life more fulfilling and enjoyable. It’s an ongoing journey of self-improvement.

Word	Meaning	Example
Acquire	To gain or obtain new knowledge or skills	He acquired French quickly
Proficiency	The level of expertise or competence in a particular skill or area	I have attained proficiency in writing essays.