IELTS Part 2 updated questions and answers with part 3 questions

 IELTS Part 2 updated questions and answers with part 3 questions

Cue Card 1

Topic: Describe a useful object in your home that you cannot live without.
You should say:

·         what the object is

·         where you got it from

·         how you use it

·         and explain why it is so important to you.

Model Answer

One of the most useful objects in my home that I simply cannot live without is my laptop. I purchased it about two years ago, when I started working as a science teacher at Bhanu Memorial School. Before that, I was using a desktop which was bulky and inconvenient when I wanted to work from different places, like my home garden or during travel.

I use this laptop in many ways. Every morning, I check my email and online educational portals for any updates or new resources. I prepare lesson plans, create presentations, and develop worksheets for my students. Even when I’m at home, I use it to watch educational videos to improve my own knowledge, especially in modern science topics. During school holidays or weekends, I also use it to connect with fellow teachers for workshops or online training.

The reason this laptop is indispensible is that it bridges distance and time. As a teacher in Pachthar district, I sometimes have to manage tasks beyond just teaching: grading, communicating with parents via messages or virtual calls, sourcing teaching materials online. Without the laptop, these tasks would be much more difficult. It also helps me stay organized; for instance, all my notes, student records, and important documents are stored digitally, which makes them easy to access and less likely to be lost.

Emotionally too, it feels like a lifeline — it gives me confidence that I can manage my workload well, try innovations in teaching, and keep up to date in my field. So, all in all, this object isn’t just useful; it supports both my work and peace of mind.

Part 3: Discussion Questions & Answers

1.      Do you think people rely too much on technology in their daily lives?
Yes, I believe many people rely heavily on technology these days. While it offers convenience, it can also reduce face-to-face interaction, make people less physically active, or create dependency. However, in many professions — like teaching — it's hard to avoid and, in many cases, very helpful.

2.      How has technology changed education in Nepal?
Technology has made a big difference: online classes, digital textbooks, virtual labs, and access to international resources are much more available now than before. This has helped students in remote areas get access to educational content that was previously difficult to find. On the other hand, there are challenges like unreliable internet, lack of devices for some students, and teacher training.

3.      What are the disadvantages of using technology in work and study?
Disadvantages include distraction (e.g. social media or non-educational content), technical glitches (power cuts, device failures), and sometimes overuse leading to poor posture, eye strain etc. There's also the risk of unequal access: not everyone can afford good devices or stable internet, which can widen educational inequality.

4.      Do you think future teachers will need different skills because of technology?
Definitely. Future teachers will need better digital literacy, ability to use online tools, manage blended or hybrid classes, adapt to virtual learning, assess students in non-traditional ways, and maintain student engagement even when learning isn’t face-to-face. Emotional intelligence and adaptability will also become more important, since technology changes quickly.

 

Cue Card 2

Topic: Describe an interesting conversation you had with an old person.
You should say:

·         who the person was

·         where and when you had the conversation

·         what you talked about

·         and explain why it was interesting.

Model Answer

A few months ago, during a summer break, I visited my grandmother in a village near Jamune, Bhanu. While sitting under a large banyan tree in her courtyard in the evening, I had a very interesting conversation with her. She is now in her seventies, but she has sharp memory and a rich knowledge of local history and traditional science (herbs, farming methods etc.).

We talked about how people used to live decades ago — how they managed farming without modern machinery, how they used natural remedies for illness, how local festivals were celebrated differently, how students used to study by candlelight, etc. She also told me stories of her youth, how she helped her parents in fields, how science was all around but informal: observing bird migration, weather patterns, herbal plants, but no formal education.

What made the conversation interesting was the contrast between her world and mine. I, as a science teacher, learned about theories, lab experiments, chemicals, and technology. But she described science as something intuitive and integrated into daily life. Hearing her stories made me realise that much of what is considered “traditional knowledge” is deeply scientific in its own way. It also inspired me as a teacher to try to bridge formal science and local ways of understanding nature for my students.

This conversation reminded me that knowledge doesn't only come from textbooks; it comes from experience and culture. It was interesting, inspiring, and humbling.

Part 3: Discussion Questions & Answers

1.      Why is it valuable to listen to elderly people’s experiences?
Because elderly people carry a wealth of wisdom, traditional knowledge, perspective, and life lessons. They have seen changes over many years and can offer insights into what works and what doesn’t. Their experiences can help younger people make better choices.

2.      Do young people respect the opinions of old people nowadays?
It depends. Some do, especially those who are close to their families or communities. But with modernization, global culture, and education, some young people may undervalue traditional or elder knowledge, seeing it as outdated. I think education and awareness can help bridge that gap.

3.      How can conversation between old and young generation be encouraged?
We can promote intergenerational programs at schools, community events, family story-telling times, and even inviting elders to speak in classrooms. Also, preserving oral histories, local traditions, and encouraging respect for elders in society helps.

4.      Do you think traditional knowledge has a place in modern education?
Yes, I believe it does. Traditional knowledge — about plants, environment, local history — can make education more relevant and relatable. It can also foster respect for culture and sustainable practices. Incorporating it in curricula or extra-curricular activities would be beneficial.

 

Cue Card 3

Topic: Describe a time when you learned a difficult word.
You should say:

·         what the word was

·         where you saw/heard it first

·         how you learned its meaning

·         and explain how remembering that word was important.

Model Answer

A difficult word I remember learning is “photosynthesis”, during my first year as a biology teacher. I encountered it in a scientific journal while reading about plant physiology. Even though I had taught basic biology before, the article used a complex definition and detailed diagrams showing the biochemical process, which I hadn’t deeply taught.

At first, I didn’t fully understand the word because the journal assumed background in chemistry — things like chlorophyll, light spectrum, carbon dioxide assimilation etc. To learn its meaning clearly, I broke it down: “photo-” means light, “synthesis” means putting together. Then I consulted educational videos, attended a seminar online, and drew diagrams myself to understand how plants convert light into chemical energy. I also made sure to teach it to my students in simple steps, using examples and experiments with leaves in sunlight and shadows.

Remembering this word became important because photosynthesis is fundamental to biology and to life itself. It often appears in exams and in understanding topics like climate change, ecology, and farming. Also, as a teacher, being able to explain it clearly makes a big difference for students. That learning experience improved my confidence in teaching difficult scientific terminology and helped me develop methods for teaching other complex words.

Part 3: Discussion Questions & Answers

1.      Do you think vocabulary is very important in learning a language?
Yes, vocabulary is essential: without enough words, you cannot express ideas clearly, understand texts, or comprehend what others say. Good vocabulary helps fluency and comprehension.

2.      What is better: learning vocabulary through reading or using formal instruction?
Both have benefits. Reading exposes you to words in context, which helps retention. Formal instruction can ensure you learn precise usage, pronunciation, and tricky aspects. Ideally, combining the two works best.

3.      Do children learn new words more easily than adults?
Children tend to pick up new words more naturally and quickly because their brains are more plastic and they are exposed to new words frequently. Adults may need more deliberate effort, but adults can also use strategies like mnemonics, repeated use, or reading to improve.

4.      How can teachers help students remember difficult vocabulary?
Teachers can use visuals, real-life examples, repetition, interactive exercises, encouraging students to use new words in speaking or writing, and linking new words to what students already know.

Cue Card 4

Topic: Describe an important book that you have read many times.
You should say:

·         what the book is

·         when you first read it

·         why you read it more than once

·         and explain how it has influenced you.

Model Answer

An important book I have read many times is “The Periodic Table” by Primo Levi. I first encountered it while preparing for my undergraduate chemistry courses. When I read it initially, I was drawn to how the author uses chemical elements as metaphors for human lives, exploring science, ethics, war, and memory.

I read it more than once for several reasons. First, every time I read it I find something new: one chapter may seem philosophical, another describes scientific processes poetically, and yet another explores moral dilemmas. Also, as I progressed in life — from student to teacher — I related to different parts in different ways. As a teacher of science, I appreciated Levi’s precise depiction of chemical elements and his respect for the discipline. As a human being, I was moved by his reflections on identity, suffering, and creativity.

Its influence on me has been significant. It shaped how I think about science not just as factual knowledge but as something connected to humanity and ethical responsibility. When I teach, I try to remind students that scientists have to be mindful of how their work impacts society. Also, it made me more reflective: about persistence, honesty, and the complexity of life.

Reading this book multiple times strengthened my analytical skills, enriched my style of explaining science, and reminded me that learning is never just technical — it includes moral and philosophical dimensions as well.

Part 3: Discussion Questions & Answers

1.      How do you think reading books benefits people?
Reading improves vocabulary, critical thinking, empathy, and knowledge. It exposes us to different worldviews. For students, it aids academic performance; for teachers, it provides content, perspective, and inspiration.

2.      Do people read as much now as in the past?
Probably less, especially physical books. Many prefer digital content, social media, or short articles. Time constraints and distractions also reduce reading. But e-books, audiobooks, and online content offer new ways to read.

3.      Should reading be encouraged in schools more?
Yes, schools should encourage reading through library programs, reading clubs, assignments that include novels and non-fiction, and giving students time to read. Also, celebrating reading achievements can motivate them.

4.      What types of books are popular in your country now?
In Nepal, self-help books, inspirational biographies, romance novels, detective / mystery stories, and books about spirituality or culture are popular. Academic and exam-oriented books are also in high demand.

 

Cue Card 5

Topic: Describe a public facility that has been renovated and improved.
You should say:

·         what facility it was

·         where it is located

·         what changes were made

·         and explain how these changes affected people who use it.

Model Answer

In the town of Pachthar, the public library near the municipality office was recently renovated and improved, and it’s one facility that impressed me. Before the renovation, the library was rather run-down: the lighting was poor, the shelves were old and crowded, the furniture was uncomfortable, and there was very limited internet access. Also, the building was small, so many students had to share limited space.

About six months ago, a local NGO partnered with the municipality and donors to renovate it. They installed bright LED lighting, repaired the roof, expanded reading rooms, added air-conditioning, replaced old furniture with ergonomic chairs and tables, and most importantly, introduced computer stations with internet access. They also made a separate section for children, with colourful décor, comfortable cushions, and relevant books.

These changes have had a positive impact. Students now come in more frequently to study after school because they feel comfortable and equipped. Teachers like me can organize group discussions there. The children’s section has encouraged younger students to develop reading habits. Also, the computer stations help those who don’t own devices or have unstable connections at home to do research, write assignments, or prepare presentations. Community members also use the space for meetings or learning sessions.

For me, as a teacher, this renovation means I can recommend this library as a study place, set assignments that require library research, and encourage students to value reading. Overall, the improved facility has uplifted morale, learning opportunities, and has fostered a stronger learning community in Pachthar.

Part 3: Discussion Questions & Answers

1.      Why are public facilities important for a community?
They provide shared resources, support education and health, improve quality of life, and reduce inequality by offering services to those who might not afford private alternatives.

2.      What kinds of public facilities need improvement in Nepal?
Schools, libraries, roads, public transport, parks, sanitation systems, and health clinics in remote areas often need improvement — better infrastructure, maintenance, and reliable service.

3.      Who should be responsible for funding renovations of public facilities?
It should be a joint responsibility: local government, community people, NGOs, and sometimes private donors. Public-private partnerships can help. Also, local involvement ensures maintenance and proper use.

4.      What challenges are there in renovating public facilities?
Challenges include lack of funding, bureaucratic delays, corrupt management, lack of skilled workers or materials in remote areas, and ensuring maintenance after renovation.

5.      Do people use public facilities more when they are well maintained?
Yes. When a facility is clean, comfortable, and has useful features (like internet, space, lighting), people are more willing to use it. It increases trust and sense of ownership among community.