Describe an occasion when you used a map

IELTS Cue Card/ Candidate Task Card 589 with Model Answer:

Describe an occasion when you used a map.

You should say:

• when it was
• why you needed to use a map
• how the map helped you

and explain how you felt about using the map on this occasion.

[You will have to talk about the topic for one to two minutes. You have one minute to think about what you are going to say. You can make some notes to help you if you wish.]

---

Model Answer:

Introduction:
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to talk about a time when I used a map. I clearly remember a situation a couple of years ago when I used a map to navigate an unfamiliar city during my solo trip. Here, I will share the details of that experience.

When it was:
It was around two years ago when I decided to take a solo trip to the beautiful city of Amsterdam in the Netherlands. It was my first time visiting the city, and I was quite excited to explore its charming streets, canals, and historic sites.

Why you needed to use a map:
I needed to use a map because I wanted to visit the famous Van Gogh Museum, but I had no idea how to get there from my hotel. Being in a new city, I didn’t want to waste time wandering around, so I decided to use a map on my smartphone to find the most efficient route.

How the map helped you:
The map was incredibly helpful as it not only showed me the way but also provided real-time updates on traffic and public transport schedules. I used the navigation feature to track my location and followed the route suggested. The map also pointed out nearby tram stops and estimated the travel time, which made my journey much smoother. I reached the museum without any hassle and even discovered some beautiful canals and quaint coffee shops along the way.

And explain how you felt about using the map on this occasion:
Well, I felt extremely relieved and grateful for having the map on my phone. It made me feel more confident about exploring the city independently. Using the map gave me a sense of security, knowing that I wouldn’t get lost. I also felt a bit proud of myself for successfully navigating a foreign city on my own.