IELTS Speaking Part 2: IELTS speaking IELTS New Cue card 

Note: you have to talk for 1 to 2 minutes. You have 1 minute to take a look at the main points and prepare some notes which you can use while speaking.

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The historical period that I would like to know more about is the reign of Maharaja Ranjit Singh in Punjab, India during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. This period of history is particularly intriguing to me for several reasons.

First and foremost, Maharaja Ranjit Singh was a powerful and influential leader who played a significant role in shaping the history of the region. He was a visionary leader who was able to unite the various factions in Punjab and establish a strong and stable kingdom, known as the Sikh Empire. He also made significant military and territorial gains, expanding the kingdom’s borders to include regions such as Lahore, Multan and Kashmir.

Secondly, the reign of Maharaja Ranjit Singh was a period of great cultural and economic development. He was a patron of the arts and encouraged the development of literature, music and architecture. He also implemented policies to promote agriculture, trade and industry, which led to a significant improvement in the lives of the people living in the kingdom.

Lastly, I am particularly interested in learning more about the interactions and relations between Maharaja Ranjit Singh and the British East India Company, which was a powerful presence in the region during this period. The British were initially wary of the strength of the Sikh Empire, but eventually, they formed an alliance with Maharaja Ranjit Singh, which ultimately led to the downfall of the Sikh Empire and the British taking control of the region.

In order to know more about this period, I would like to delve deeper into the primary source, such as the accounts of the British officials, letters, and journals from the time period, as well as the secondary sources such as scholarly books and articles written by historians, which would give me a more comprehensive understanding of this historical period. Additionally, I would also consider visiting historical sites and monuments associated with this period, such as the Lahore Fort and the Golden Temple in Amritsar, to gain a better appreciation of the culture and architecture of the time.

Sample answers (2) describe a historical period you would like to know more about Jan to Apr 2023 along with Follow-ups

The historical period that I would like to know more about is the Indian independence movement, specifically the life and contributions of Bhagat Singh.

I am particularly interested in this period because of the significant impact that Bhagat Singh had on the Indian independence movement. He was a prominent freedom fighter who advocated for revolutionary methods to achieve independence from British rule. He is known for his strong belief in socialism and his commitment to non-violent resistance.

In order to gain a deeper understanding of this period and Bhagat Singh’s role in it, I plan on researching primary sources such as historical documents and speeches made by Bhagat Singh himself. Additionally, I will read biographies and historical accounts written by scholars and experts on the Indian independence movement. I will also seek out any documentaries or films that portray Bhagat Singh’s life and contributions to the Indian independence movement.

Furthermore, I plan to visit historical sites and monuments related to Bhagat Singh and the Indian independence movement, as well as engage in discussions with people who have a personal connection to this period of history. By utilizing a variety of sources and methods, I believe I can gain a well-rounded and comprehensive understanding of this historical period and Bhagat Singh’s contributions to it.

Follow-Ups

1. Do you think nowadays children are learning too much about history?

It is subjective whether children are learning too much about history, as different individuals may have different opinions on the appropriate amount of historical education for children.

2. Many children tend to get bored with history because of all these dates, time, and names to

It is possible that some children may find traditional methods of teaching history, such as memorizing dates and names, to be dull or unengaging. However, there are also many ways to make history more interesting and interactive for children, such as through hands-on activities, field trips, and technology.

3. Some people tend to go against the idea of learning from past experiences, what about you?

I can tell you that learning from past experiences can be valuable in understanding the context of current events and making informed decisions for the future.

4. Do you think it is important to know about history? OR What can we learn from history?

Yes, understanding history is important as it provides context for current events, helps to understand different cultures and societies, and can teach valuable lessons about human behavior and decision-making.

5. How can people get reliable historical information?

Reliable historical information can be found from a variety of sources such as reputable history books, academic journals, and reputable historical societies or organizations. It’s important to consider the credibility of the source and to cross-reference with multiple sources.

6. How do you think famous historical figures can serve as models for young people today?

Famous historical figures can serve as models for young people by providing examples of leadership, perseverance, and the ability to make a positive impact on the world.

8. Who do you think likes to go to museums more – children or adults?

It could be argued that both children and adults can enjoy visiting museums, as museums can have exhibits and activities that are appealing to both age groups.

9. Do you think museums should be free of cost to enter?

This is a matter of opinion, some people may argue that museums should be free to enter as they are a source of education and cultural enrichment, while others may argue that museums should charge admission in order to fund their operations and maintenance.

Sample answers (3) describe a historical period you would like to know more about Jan to Apr 2023 along with Follow-ups

To be honest, I have keen interest in history since school days. I like to read and listen historical stories which helps me to enhance knowledge. Here, today I am going to talk about a historical period which I want to know more. This period is known as ‘Indian independence movement’. This freedom movement was started by youngsters of Punjab named Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev Singh, Rajguru and many more. It began in the early 20th century.

I came to know about this period from a history book in 10th class. During my school time, I studied that between 1857 and 1947, there was a British rule in India. Since the British rule, many protests were done by freedom fighters to get liberty, but the successful fight was fought by these youngsters. However, I would like to gain more knowledge about this period, because as a youngster, this movement gives me the inspiration to fight against bad people and works in the society.

Apart from this, it also shows the bravery of youth. Honestly speaking, I want to know that how these young freedom fighters uprooted the roots of British Empire from India. In addition, Bhagat singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev were hung by British officials because they were leader of this movement. Finally, India got Independence on 15 August 1947.

Moving further, I will get more knowledge about this historical period from ‘Great freedom fighters’ book which contains deep information about this historic period. All in all, this is a period of history which I would like to know more about.

Sample answers (4) describe a historical period you would like to know more about Jan to Apr 2023 along with Follow-ups

Well, history plays a part and parcel role in every individual’s life because it inspires us and builds a better understanding of the world. I love to listen to the stories of historical periods, especially about religions and freedom fighters. So, here I am going to talk about a historical period of Guru Gobind Singh ji’s life which is the “creation of Khalsa”.

In my X standard, in my history book, I learned some things about the Khalsa and it was formed by Guru Gobind Singh at Vaisakhi in AD1699. He initiated it with a duty to protect the innocents from Islamic religious oppression. In my childhood, I also loved to listen to the stories of guru Gobind Singh Ji’s life from my grandmother.

I want to know more about the principles of Khalsa that Guru Gobind Singh ji gave the order to the people that the Khalsa will keep a high moral character. Moreover, for entering the Khalsa Panth, everyone has to drink Amrit, thereafter he would be called a Khalsa. Every Khalsa will believes in one God.

But I don’t think I have great knowledge about it but I have a high curiosity level so I want to know about the depth of knowledge about the creation of Khalsa from one of my relatives. And I have to search a lot about it. Moreover, I can come to know about Khalsa’s historical period by visiting some historical places such as Anandpur sahib and Amritsar. So, I would love to know more about this historical period.

Sample answers (5) describe a historical period you would like to know more about Jan to Apr 2023 along with Follow-ups

● History has never been my favorite subject
● But there are some periods of history, which have always fascinated me, and I would like to
know more about them
● One such period is the Indus Valley period
● I recently saw the movie Mohenjo Daro, which tells about the way people, lived during
those days.
● First time I learned about the period from my history book at school. My school also
organized a trip to National Museum, New Delhi where there are many seals and pots from
that period.
● I also saw the plans of the Indus Valley Architecture.
● Indus Valley people were very ahead of their times. They lived in cities with walls, in a time
period that dates back to 2600-1900 BC.
● Many buildings like baths, bead factories, and granaries have been excavated at their ruins.
● An interesting thing about the Indus valley people as they lived in burnt brick houses like
today.
● The streets met each other at right angles. There were drains, which could be cleaned.
● Also there were no places of worship, people worshipped nature elements like air, and water.
● There are still many mysteries about this period that still need to be resolved.
● Their script has not been deciphered as of yet.
● There is a mystery regarding the decline of civilization.
● Some scholars say that there was a massive earthquake.
● Others say that outsiders attacked them.
● Still others say that they died because they has prolonged droughts and famine because of
deforestation.
● Sometimes I dream of going back to the past and uncovering all these hidden mysteries.
● So this is the period of history I would like to know more about.

Part 3 Follow-Up Questions of Describe a historical period you would like to know more about IELTS New Cue Card

1. Do you think nowadays children are learning too much about history?
No, I don’t think so. Though there are more sources for learning about history today, like
museums, the internet and films, but children don’t seem interested in the past, somehow.

2. Many children tend to get bored with history because of all these dates, time, and names to remember, do you agree with that?
Yes, I do agree because even I am intimidated with dates. When there are too many dates to
remember, it becomes boring. However, if history is taught through movies and TV serials,
then many people would start taking interest in history.
3. Some people tend to go against the idea of learning from past experiences, what about you?
Well, everyone looks at things differently. I believe that the past is a good teacher of life.
You learn from the past and try to avoid those mistakes, which were made then. Many
politicians have handled tough times with lessons from the pas.
4. Do you think it is important to know about history? OR What can we learn from history?
Yes, it is very important to know about history. History tells us about our past. It teaches us many things. Everything has its history. We enjoy the freedom we have today only because we knew that once we were slaves. History also teaches us not to repeat the mistakes of the past. We learn about the progress we have made through history.
5. How can people get reliable historical information?
People can get reliable and historical information from books written by eminent historians,
museums, and from art galleries. Nowadays many reliable sites have information about history on the Internet.
6. How do you think famous historical figures can serve as models for young people today?
Famous historical figures can definitely serve as role models for the young people of today. For
example, when the young people of my country learn about the sacrifices done by our great
martyrs, they are filled with a sense of patriotism and want to do something for the country
7. Do people in your country like to visit museums?
Yes, people in my country like to visit museums. They learn a lot from them. Modern interactive
museums are more interesting for young people and children. For example, people of my state
like to go to Pushpa Gujral Science City museum more than the other museums because they have a lot to do and see over there.
8. Who do you think likes to go to museums more – children or adults?
Both, children and adults like to go to museums, but children enjoy those museums, which
are interactive.
9. Do you think museums should be free of cost to enter?
No, I do not think museums should be free of cost. These museums require a lot of maintenance. So
a minimum fee should be there. Moreover, people do not value something, which is given to them absolutely free.