Describing a childhood memory that makes you smile is a common topic in IELTS Speaking tests. This theme allows candidates to showcase their ability to recount past experiences while demonstrating language proficiency. As an IELTS examiner, I’ve noticed this topic’s popularity in recent years and expect it to remain relevant in future tests.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask questions to warm you up and get you talking about your childhood memories. Here are some potential questions:
- Do you have many childhood memories?
- What’s your happiest childhood memory?
- How often do you think about your childhood?
Let’s focus on answering the second question:
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“My happiest childhood memory is undoubtedly the summer I spent at my grandparents’ farm when I was about eight years old. It was a blissful time filled with carefree days exploring the countryside, helping my grandfather tend to the animals, and enjoying my grandmother’s delicious home-cooked meals. What stands out most vividly in my mind is the sense of freedom and adventure I experienced, which was quite different from my usual city life.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:
Describe a childhood memory that makes you smile
You should say:
- What the memory is about
- When this happened
- Where it happened
- And explain why this memory makes you smile
Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“I’d like to share a childhood memory that never fails to bring a smile to my face. It’s about the day I learned to ride a bicycle without training wheels. This happened when I was around six years old, in the small park near our house.
I remember my dad running alongside me, holding the back of the seat as I pedaled. He kept encouraging me, saying I was doing great. At some point, I realized he had let go, and I was riding on my own! I was so excited that I let out a joyful shout.
This memory makes me smile because it represents a significant milestone in my childhood. It was a moment of pure happiness and accomplishment. The feeling of independence and the pride in my dad’s eyes are something I’ll never forget. Whenever I see children learning to ride bikes now, it brings back this wonderful memory.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to recount a cherished childhood memory that never fails to elicit a smile. It revolves around the day I mastered the art of riding a bicycle without training wheels. This momentous occasion transpired when I was approximately six years old, in the quaint park adjacent to our family home.
The memory is crystal clear in my mind. My father was tirelessly running alongside me, his hand firmly gripping the back of the seat as I pedaled with determination. His words of encouragement were a constant source of motivation, boosting my confidence with each rotation of the wheels. Suddenly, I experienced an exhilarating sensation of freedom – I realized my father had released his hold, and I was independently navigating the path!
This memory invariably brings a smile to my face for several reasons. Primarily, it symbolizes a significant milestone in my childhood development. It was a moment of unadulterated joy and a sense of personal achievement. The newfound feeling of independence, coupled with the unmistakable pride radiating from my father’s eyes, created an indelible impression on my young mind. To this day, observing children in the throes of learning to ride bicycles instantly transports me back to this wonderful memory, evoking a sense of nostalgia and happiness.”
A child learning to ride a bicycle with parent's support
Follow-up questions:
- How has this experience influenced your life?
- Do you think children today have similar experiences?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“This experience has had a lasting impact on my life. It taught me the importance of perseverance and the joy of overcoming challenges. As for children today, while they might have similar experiences, I believe the context has changed. With the prevalence of technology, outdoor activities like bike riding might be less common, but the sense of achievement when mastering a new skill remains universal.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: “Let’s talk about childhood memories in general. Do you think childhood memories play an important role in shaping a person’s character?”
Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“Yes, I believe childhood memories are quite important in shaping a person’s character. The experiences we have as children can influence our behavior and attitudes later in life. For example, if a child has many positive memories of trying new things, they might grow up to be more adventurous. On the other hand, negative experiences could make someone more cautious or fearful. Our childhood memories also help form our values and beliefs, which are a big part of our character.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I firmly believe that childhood memories play a pivotal role in shaping an individual’s character. These early experiences serve as the foundation upon which our personalities are built. They significantly influence our behavior patterns, attitudes, and worldviews in adulthood.
For instance, a child who accumulates a wealth of positive memories associated with exploring new environments or tackling challenges is more likely to develop into an adult who embraces novelty and demonstrates resilience in the face of adversity. Conversely, negative experiences during formative years might instill a sense of caution or even anxiety when confronting unfamiliar situations later in life.
Moreover, childhood memories contribute substantially to the formation of our core values and belief systems, which are integral components of our character. The lessons we learn, the relationships we form, and the emotions we experience during childhood often leave an indelible mark on our psyche, guiding our moral compass and influencing our decision-making processes well into adulthood.
It’s also worth noting that the interpretation and reflection upon these memories as we mature can further shape our character. The way we choose to frame our childhood experiences – whether as learning opportunities, sources of strength, or obstacles to overcome – can have a profound impact on our personal growth and self-perception.”
The impact of childhood memories on character formation
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Cherished memory /ˈtʃerɪʃt ˈmeməri/ (noun phrase): A valued or treasured recollection.
Example: “That day at the beach remains a cherished memory from my childhood.”Nostalgic /nɒˈstældʒɪk/ (adjective): Characterized by or evoking a sentimental longing for the past.
Example: “Looking at old photographs always makes me feel nostalgic.”Indelible impression /ɪnˈdeləbl ɪmˈpreʃn/ (noun phrase): A mark or effect that cannot be removed or forgotten.
Example: “My first day of school left an indelible impression on my young mind.”Pivotal moment /ˈpɪvətl ˈməʊmənt/ (noun phrase): A crucial or decisive point in time.
Example: “Learning to ride a bike was a pivotal moment in my childhood.”To reminisce /ˌremɪˈnɪs/ (verb): To indulge in enjoyable recollection of past events.
Example: “We often sit together and reminisce about our school days.”
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing childhood memories:
- Use a variety of descriptive language to bring your memories to life.
- Practice structuring your answers coherently, especially for Part 2.
- Develop your ideas fully, providing reasons and examples to support your points.
- Incorporate advanced vocabulary and idiomatic expressions naturally.
- Work on your pronunciation and fluency through regular practice.
Remember, the key to success lies in authentic communication rather than memorized responses. Share your memories genuinely while showcasing your language skills.
Describe a childhood memory that you cherish can be an excellent way to demonstrate your ability to narrate past events vividly. Similarly, you might be asked to describe a favorite photo or picture which could also relate to childhood memories. Practice these topics to enhance your speaking skills and confidence for the IELTS test.