Describe an important thing you learned, not at school or college IELTS Cue Card

The IELTS speaking cue card test assesses your ability to speak fluently, organize your thoughts and use various vocabulary and grammatical structures. Here the topic “Describe an important thing you learned, not at school or college” IELTS Cue Card,  is given here as a practice test which helps you to enhance your communication skills in the IELTS Speaking Cue Card test. The entire IELTS speaking test consists of 3  sections: Introduction, cue card round and follow-up discussion round. This test will last for up to 11-14 minutes. In this article we have four model answers for the given topic with few follow-up questions. Use this article while practicing for your major exam, this will help you to enhance your marks.

Describe an important thing you learned, not at school or college - IELTS Speaking Part 2 Cue Card

Check Out our YouTube Channel to Practice Full-Length IELTS Listening Tests Daily

In the IELTS speaking cue card section the examiner will provide you with a task card, more commonly known as an IELTS cue card prompt, outlining a specific topic on which candidates must speak. The primary aim is to assess a candidate’s ability to talk at length on a given subject. You will be given 1 minute to prepare your notes and the examiner will ask you to talk for 1-2 minutes, over all this part lasts for 3-4 minutes. Followed by the IELTS speaking part 2, there comes a follow-up question round.

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?

Model answer 1 - Describe an important thing you learned, not at school or college

Introduction:

In my opinion, life is a continuous journey of learning. From the moment we are born until the day we pass away, there are endless opportunities for growth and knowledge. In this text, I will share an important lesson I learned from my father and not at school or college.

When did you learn it?

About a year ago, during a break before starting my higher education, I had enough free time. Instead of idling away, I decided to expand my knowledge by learning something new. I chose to learn how to drive a car, and my father became my teacher.

How did you learn it?

To begin my driving lessons, my father and I woke up early one morning and drove to a nearby playground. I observed my father closely as he demonstrated the various functions of the car, such as steering, operating the gear, brakes, accelerator, and clutch. After a few days, I started practicing driving on my own, with my father sitting beside me to provide guidance.

Why did you think it was important to learn it?

Learning to drive held significance for me for several reasons. Firstly, as I planned to pursue higher education in a renowned Canadian city, I discovered that international students have the opportunity to work part-time to earn money so I felt that having the ability to drive would greatly assist me in finding such employment. Additionally, I personally believe that learning to drive is a valuable lifelong skill.

How you felt when you learnt it?

In just a few weeks, I mastered the skill of driving a car and obtained my learner's permit. As a result, I became capable of driving around my local area independently. This newfound freedom made me incredibly happy. 

Conclusion:

Overall the entire experience was exhilarating, and I began utilizing the car more frequently for various tasks such as dropping my sister to school or accompanying my mother on shopping trips.

Model answer 2 - Describe an important thing you learned, not at school or college

Introduction:

Learning helps us build our self-confidence and gives a sense of accomplishment. Many of us learn in order to improve ourselves and grow personally. Here, I will discuss something new that I have learned, not at school or college.

When did you learn it?

It occurred almost three years ago when I was in my 12th grade at Pune. Meanwhile, my parents were employed in a corporate company. I would leave for school at 8 in the morning and return home by 5 PM, while my parents would head to the office at 11 AM and come back around 9-10 PM.

How did you learn it?

I acquired my cooking skills through the use of a technology called Television. Every day, I would tune in to a cooking show called "Mr. Chef" which aired on a popular television channel. The show was hosted by a renowned chef named Mr. Deva from Tamilnadu. Interestingly, his teaching style was very straightforward. I would also take notes of his recipes and start preparing them in my own kitchen.

Why did you think it was important to learn it?

My parents used to work late in a corporate company, so I often found myself going to bed hungry. This led me to believe that learning how to cook was necessary. Initially, I had hoped to learn from my mother, but she didn't have much time to spare. As a result, I decided to teach myself by watching cooking shows on television.

How you felt when you learnt it?

When I first started learning, I began with a recipe called Dosa with Sambar, and gradually expanded my cooking skills by trying out different cuisine. Once I became proficient, I started cooking every day at home. Whenever my parents were late, I would prepare dinner for them. Additionally, I have recently started experimenting with baking, making cakes, buns, and other treats.

Conclusion:

I felt extremely happy and accomplished after learning how to cook. I can now prepare any dish whenever I feel hungry. Furthermore, I have taken on the responsibility of making cakes for all our birthdays.

Model answer 3 - Describe an important thing you learned, not at school or college

Introduction:

In today's modern world, there are numerous ways to acquire knowledge, such as reading textbooks or utilizing technology. In this text, I will discuss what I learned through the use of technology. One can employ digital tools and platforms to facilitate, organize, and enhance the learning process.

When did you learn it?

I am uncertain of the exact year, but it was approximately three or four years ago, I started college. During that time, I urgently needed to sew a dress. However, residing in a remote village, I had to travel to a distant city to find the necessary resources. Since it was nighttime and transportation was unavailable, I was unable to sew my dress and consequently missed a day of college. Initially, I believed that I would never learn how to sew.

How did you learn it?

Determined to acquire the skill of stitching, I realized that there were no local classes available in my remote village. Therefore, I decided to learn stitching using my mobile phone. Initially, I began by watching instructional videos on YouTube and gradually improved my skills by enrolling in an online class. Through this method, I successfully learned how to sew.

Why did you think it was important to learn it?

Initially, I began learning this skill solely to fulfill my personal needs. However, as I delved deeper into it, I discovered the various advantages of acquiring this skill. For instance, learning how to sew by hand or using a machine can save money, as I no longer have to depend on a tailor every time. Similar to the current trend of adult coloring, sewing can be a calming and therapeutic activity, serving as a positive method to manage stress. Upon realizing all these benefits associated with a single skill, I became intrigued and eager to learn sewing.

How you felt when you learnt it?

After acquiring this skill, I am now able to stitch my own clothes. Additionally, some residents of the village have started entrusting their clothes to me for stitching purposes, providing me with an opportunity to earn money. I felt that I had acquired a lifelong useful skill and I was proud of myself for making such a commendable decision.

Conclusion:

I think I have gained a significant understanding that wasn't taught in school, which is extremely valuable. Additionally, this continuous journey of self-improvement not only enhances my professional achievements but also adds value to my personal life.

IELTS speaking part 3 - Describe an important thing you learned, not at school or college follow up questions.

In part 3 of the speaking test the examiner will ask further questions which are connected to the topics discussed in part 2.We have given some follow up questions related to “Describe an important thing you learned, not at school or college  ”. It will help you for your major exams.

1. What do children learn from their parents?

Parents serve as the initial educators for their children, imparting a wide range of knowledge from early childhood. They teach fundamental skills, such as self-expression, problem-solving, resilience, and the development of various abilities, which contribute to a fulfilling life.

2. Are some children well-behaved because of their parents?

In my perspective, the behavior of children is influenced not only by their parents but also by external factors like media, friends, and teachers. However, parents and teachers play a crucial role in fostering well-behaved children. 

3. Is it necessary for adults to learn new things?

Undoubtedly, adults need to continually acquire new knowledge and skills. In our rapidly advancing world, learning is essential for survival. For instance, if a teenager wishes to secure a job, they must stay updated on computer skills like Java, front-end or back-end programming; otherwise, they may struggle to find employment.
 
4. What are the options for learning new things?

With the advancements in technology, individuals now have numerous options to learn new things. Platforms like YouTube and Google offer a wealth of information. Additionally, people can learn from their elders or through reading books.

5. Is learning new things important for our physical and mental health?

Engaging in learning activities has positive effects on the brain, regardless of age. When we learn a new skill, our brain undergoes changes and adapts to the new information, making it more flexible. In general, this contributes to maintaining good health.

Check out other IELTS speaking cue card topics

• Describe a family member
• Describe a crowded place you have visited
• Describe a game you played in your childhood