The IELTS Speaking exam is designed to assess your ability to communicate effectively in English. This section consists of three parts: the Introduction and Interview (Part 1), the Long Turn (Part 2), and the Two-way Discussion (Part 3). Among these, Part 2, also known as the “cue card” segment, often poses a significant challenge for many candidates. This article focuses on answering the cue card question, “Describe a time when you did something kind,” and provides tips and examples to help you achieve a high band score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
Common Questions and Sample Answer
In Part 1, the examiner will ask you general questions about yourself and various familiar topics such as your home, family, work, studies, and interests. One possible question could be:
Question: What activities do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Sample Answer:
“During my free time, I love reading books, particularly non-fiction. I also enjoy going for a jog in the park near my house. It helps me unwind and keeps me fit. Occasionally, I indulge in cooking and experimenting with new recipes as it’s both relaxing and a creative outlet for me.”
This response is structured, gives specific details, and uses complex sentences, all of which contribute to a higher band score.
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card Question
You will be given a topic card and have one minute to prepare a speech of one to two minutes. Here is a related cue card topic:
Describe a time when you did something kind.
- You should say:
- Who you did it for
- What you did
- Why you did it
- And explain how you felt about it
Sample Answer
Sample Answer:
“Last year, I had an opportunity to help one of my close friends during a difficult time. My friend, Jenny, had lost her job unexpectedly and was feeling very depressed. Seeing her struggle, I decided to step in and support her. I helped her update her resume and prepared her for job interviews by conducting mock interview sessions.
Jenny was extremely grateful and eventually secured a new job at a reputable company. This experience was not only fulfilling for me but also strengthened our friendship. It made me realize the importance of being there for others in times of need. I felt a profound sense of satisfaction and joy knowing that my efforts had a positive impact on Jenny’s life.”
This answer is well-structured, rich in vocabulary, and showcases both fluency and coherence—key elements that are scored in the IELTS Speaking test.
Follow-up Questions
Question 1: Did you receive kindness from others during your stressful times?
Answer:
“Yes, I did. There was a time when I was overwhelmed with academic pressure, and my family provided immense emotional support. Their encouragement helped me overcome my stress and continue with my studies.”
Question 2: How do you define kindness?
Answer:
“Kindness, to me, means helping others selflessly and being considerate of their feelings. It involves actions that positively impact someone else’s life without expecting anything in return.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner Questions and Suggested Answers
The final part will involve a deeper discussion related to the topic in Part 2. Here, you need to express your opinions and justify them with reasons and examples.
Question: Is it important to teach children to be kind?
Answer:
“Absolutely, teaching kindness to children is essential. It fosters empathy, compassion, and a sense of community. When children understand the value of kindness, they grow up to be considerate and responsible adults. For instance, simple acts of sharing and helping others can profoundly shape their characters.”
Question: Do you think people are less kind than they used to be?
Answer:
“I don’t believe people are inherently less kind now, but the fast-paced, competitive nature of modern life might make acts of kindness less noticeable. However, there are many stories and initiatives today that show people still engage in acts of kindness. Online platforms, for instance, often spotlight charitable activities and social causes, reinforcing the notion that kindness is very much alive.”
Tips for Achieving a High Band Score
Practice and Preparation
- Structure Your Thoughts: Always organize your responses with a clear beginning, middle, and end.
- Use a Wide Range of Vocabulary: This shows your language proficiency and avoids repetition.
- Fluency and Coherence: Speak smoothly without long pauses, and ensure your speech flows logically.
- Pronunciation: Work on clear pronunciation and intonation to make your speech more engaging.
- Practice Common Topics: Frequently practice common IELTS topics to become more comfortable and confident.
By following these guidelines and practicing the sample answers, you can significantly improve your performance in the IELTS Speaking exam.
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For more detailed insights and sample questions related to IELTS topics, visit What Kind of Things Make You Happy and When Did You Get Your First Mobile Phone.
By mastering these elements, you can approach the IELTS Speaking test with confidence and achieve the high band score you aim for. Happy practicing!