In the IELTS Speaking exam, one of the common topics that you might encounter is describing a person who made you laugh. This type of question often appears in Part 2 of the Speaking test, known as the “Long Turn” section. The examiner looks for specific qualities in your response, such as fluency, coherence, range of vocabulary, and grammatical accuracy. Understanding how to effectively answer such questions can significantly improve your score. This article will provide you with sample questions, responses, and useful tips to help you excel.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner asks general questions to help you warm up. Here are some sample questions and a suggested way to answer one of them:
Sample Questions
- What do you do to relax during your free time?
- Do you prefer to spend your evenings with friends or alone?
- Who is the funniest person you know?
Example Answer
Question: Who is the funniest person you know?
“Well, the funniest person I know is my friend John. He has an amazing sense of humor and always knows how to make me laugh, no matter the situation. His witty remarks and funny anecdotes brighten up my day.”
Part 2: Long Turn
In Part 2, you’ll be given a cue card with prompts to help you structure your response. Below is a detailed breakdown of how to craft a compelling answer.
Cue Card
Describe A Person Who Made You Laugh.
You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know this person
- What this person did to make you laugh
- Explain why this person is funny
friends-laughing|Friends laughing together|A group of diverse friends laughing together outdoors.
Sample Answer
“One person who never fails to make me laugh is my colleague Sarah. We met at work about two years ago, and since then, we’ve become really good friends. Sarah has a knack for finding humor in everyday situations. For instance, one time during a boring meeting, she started mimicking our boss’s serious expressions, and it was so spot-on that I couldn’t help but burst into laughter. Her impeccable timing and playful nature make her a joy to be around. The most memorable instance was when she pretended to be a news anchor reporting on absurdly minor office incidents, and her exaggerated seriousness was hilarious. Sarah’s unique brand of humor revolves around spontaneity and wit, which is why she’s the funniest person I know.”
Follow-up Questions
- Do you think it’s important to have a sense of humor?
- How do you usually cheer up a friend who’s feeling down?
Example Responses:
Question: Do you think it’s important to have a sense of humor?
“Yes, absolutely. Having a sense of humor is crucial because it helps to alleviate stress and create a more positive atmosphere. It also makes it easier to connect with others on a personal level.”
Question: How do you usually cheer up a friend who’s feeling down?
“I usually try to lighten the mood with a joke or a funny story. Sometimes, I also suggest watching a comedy movie together, as laughter can be incredibly therapeutic.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In Part 3, the examiner will engage you in a more abstract discussion, exploring broader concepts related to humor and its impact.
Sample Questions
- Why do people enjoy watching comedy programs or movies?
- How have comedic styles changed over the years?
- Do you think comedians have an important role in society?
Example Responses:
Question: Why do people enjoy watching comedy programs or movies?
“People enjoy watching comedy programs or movies because they provide a much-needed escape from everyday stresses. Laughter releases endorphins, which can improve mood and overall well-being. Additionally, comedy can bring people together, creating a shared experience of joy.”
Question: Do you think comedians have an important role in society?
“Indeed, comedians play a vital role in society. They not only entertain but often provide commentary on social and political issues through satire. This can provoke thought and discussion, making humor a powerful tool for change.”
Vocabulary and Key Phrases for High Scores
- Knack (n.) – a special talent or skill.
- She has a knack for telling funny stories.
- Witty (adj.) – showing or characterized by quick and inventive verbal humor.
- His witty remarks always make the crowd laugh.
- Spontaneity (n.) – the quality of being spontaneous and acting on impulse.
- Her spontaneity makes every moment fun and unpredictable.
- Therapeutic (adj.) – having a healing effect; beneficial to health.
- Laughter is therapeutic and can significantly improve one’s mood.
Tips for High Scores in the Speaking Test
- Practice Regularly: Consistent practice helps build confidence and fluency.
- Expand Your Vocabulary: Reading books, watching English shows, and using language apps can help increase your range.
- Record Yourself: Listening to your recordings allows you to identify areas for improvement in pronunciation and coherence.
- Use Real-life Examples: Authentic examples make your speech more relatable and engaging.
By following these tips and incorporating the strategies outlined in this guide, you’re well on your way to achieving a high score in your IELTS Speaking exam.
