IELTS Speaking Cue Card

We often see people who speak their mind and are quite open about their feelings. I think it is a good trait to have as it saves us from unnecessary drama. My friend Dan is one such person who likes to be forthright in almost every situation. He likes to stick to reality and does not sugar-coat his words to impress other. Although being so open sometimes makes him look like a villain, it cannot be denied that it is his personality and has no ulterior motive. 

Dan and I have been friends since college. He invited me to join the youth club where we organised many engaging events. We have conducted gatherings to spread awareness of breast cancer, collected funds to donate to crisis hit regions and helped the needy on several occasions. Some of these events were emotional and Dan did not think twice to express his feelings. 

I am not that vivid and choose to hide my emotions in tense situations, but he, on the other hand, always lets out his feelings without the fear of being judged. He has clear and honest social and political views which he expresses in some gatherings where sometimes he receives a backlash. Anyway, he is frank about all that he feels and chooses to express his feelings, be it happiness or sadness. 

We have been friends for almost five years now and I love spending time with him. I discuss things that I have a diverse opinion about because he gives honest responses and advises. He also inspired me to be more candid which made me feel more confident about myself. 

Vocabulary:

1. Forthright – outspoken
2. Ulterior – intentionally hidden
3. Vivid – lively
4. Candid – frank

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Part 3 Follow Up - Questions & Answers

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1. Is it difficult for people in your country to express their feelings?

No, people in my country are utterly emotional and expressive. Although, some choose to be covert and not open up about their feelings, it is merely a choice and does not apply to the vast population of others who openly talk about their opinions.

2. Who do you think talk more? Children or grown-ups?

Children talk about anything and everything. They are the most talkative at a certain age and as they grow up, they learn that not everything needs to be talked about all the time. Adults become reserved and consider their audience before they say something. Some are highly talkative with their friends and family but stay rather calm with other people.

3. What do you think is the difference between boys and girls in expressing their feelings?

Stereotypes like boys cannot cry and an expressive boy is just a girl, make it difficult for a boy to express his feelings. With the fear of being bullied and embarrassed they choose to hide their emotions. Whereas, many girls talk about their feelings openly but ultimately, it comes to individual choice.

4. Do you think people are more open than in the past?

Well, people in the past did not voice their opinions freely because of certain social constructs. There were many stereotypes and taboos in the past society which people had to stick to, to save their social image. In recent times, many of these stereotypical social norms have been torn apart by many who started to express their opinions openly and helped make the world a better place for others.