IELTS Speaking Cue Card

I am one of those people who would go the extra mile to buy something that I really feel like I would need or want. I am usually a frugal spender, but there are certain times when something catches my eye and I cannot resist the urge of wanting to spend on it. 

Recently, I spent a lot of money on my sister’s birthday party. I wanted to surprise her with a lavish party with all her friends and our family in attendance. As part of the party arrangements, I went out to buy a special cake for her. What I had in mind was a simple yet classy looking cake custom made to look like a purse with a pair of sunglasses hanging by it and I thought it would cost around 3000 rupees.

I searched for the best cake shops in town and visited it 2 weeks prior to the party. I explained the requirements to the baker and he promised to deliver it within time. Come the day of the delivery, I was astonished to learn that it was billed at 7000 rupees. I was reluctant to agree to the price at first but since I already described it to a few of our friends, I had to go along.

Normal cakes do not cost as much and I always heard that custom cakes would also come at lower costs like at 2000-3000 rupees, but I spent way more than expected. I should have asked for the price upfront saving myself from spending too much but nevertheless it was all worth it because my sister loved the cake as it looked spot on and tasted absolutely delectable.

 

Vocabulary:

1. Frugal - economical
2. Lavish - luxurious
3. Astonished - greatly surprised
4. Reluctant - hesitant
5. Delectable - very delicious

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Part 3 Follow Up - Questions & Answers

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1. Do you often buy more than you expect?

Yes, I think it is a bad habit that I have, but I mostly buy more than I expect every time I go out. Sometimes, I go out to get just one pair of shows, but I end up buying two or three of them if there is a discount on them or if they just seem attractive to me.

2. What do you think young people spend most of their money on?

In recent times, young people spend their money on technological gadgets like phones, video games and laptops. Besides, they spend money on fashion accessories and clothing items to stay updated with the current trend. I think young and old spend much money on buying food alike.

3. Do you think it is important to save money? Why?

Yes, I think it is vital to have savings as the future is unpredictable and savings come in handy in case of emergencies. Not only that, but savings also help create a secure life after retirement for many people. Furthermore, it could become difficult to tread over hardships if there are no savings, so it is important that everyone saves a portion of their income.

4. Do people buy things that they don’t need?

Yes, I have seen many people buy things that are not necessary and I am one of them. I sometimes get attracted to random decorative things which are not needed at all, but I go ahead and buy them anyway to satisfy my curiosity.