The topic of describing a special gift is a recurring theme in IELTS Speaking tests, particularly in Part 2. This topic allows candidates to demonstrate their ability to narrate personal experiences while showcasing vocabulary related to emotions, celebrations, and personal relationships.
IELTS candidate preparing for speaking test about special gifts
Part 1: Introduction and Interview Questions
Common questions in Part 1 related to gifts include:
- Do you enjoy giving gifts to others?
- What kinds of gifts are popular in your country?
- Do you prefer to receive or give gifts?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I absolutely derive great pleasure from giving gifts to others. It’s tremendously rewarding to see someone’s face light up when they receive something thoughtful. In my country, practical items like electronics or clothing are quite popular as gifts, but I personally prefer giving personalized presents that hold special meaning.”
Similar to describe a time when you were surprised by someone’s kindness, the way you express gratitude matters significantly in your response.
Part 2: Cue Card
Task Card
Describe a gift you received that was very special to you
You should say:
- What the gift was
- Who gave it to you
- When you received it
- Why it was special to you
Student describing emotional response to receiving special gift
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about an incredibly meaningful gift I received – a vintage camera that my grandfather gave me for my 18th birthday. It was his beloved Nikon FM2 that he had cherished for over three decades.
The gift was particularly significant because my grandfather had used this camera throughout his career as a photojournalist. He thoughtfully chose to pass it down to me when he noticed my growing interest in photography. The camera holds immense sentimental value as it represents both my family’s legacy and my grandfather’s trust in my creative pursuits.
What makes this gift exceptionally special is that it wasn’t just a material possession – it was a gateway to countless stories about my grandfather’s adventures and experiences. Every scratch and wear mark on the camera tells a tale of its own, making it an irreplaceable treasure in my life.”
For those interested in similar topics, you might want to explore describe a unique gift you received for additional practice.
Follow-up Questions
Q: Has this gift influenced your life in any way?
A: “This camera has profoundly impacted my life trajectory. It sparked my passion for photography and eventually led me to pursue it professionally. Learning to use manual controls has enhanced my technical skills significantly.”
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Q: How have gift-giving traditions changed in recent years?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Gift-giving has undergone a significant transformation in recent years. There’s been a notable shift towards digital gifts and experiences rather than physical items. People are becoming increasingly conscious about sustainability, leading to a preference for eco-friendly options or meaningful experiences over material possessions.”
Similar to describe a memorable shopping experience you had recently, modern gift-giving often involves careful consideration of personal preferences and environmental impact.
Key Vocabulary and Expressions
- Cherish /ˈtʃerɪʃ/ (v): to keep hopes, memories, or ideas in your mind because they are important to you
- Irreplaceable /ˌɪrɪˈpleɪsəbl/ (adj): impossible to replace or replicate
- Sentimental value /ˌsentɪˈmentl ˈvæljuː/ (n): emotional rather than monetary worth
- Profound impact /prəˈfaʊnd ˈɪmpækt/ (phrase): deep and significant effect
Examiner’s Tips
- Use specific examples and personal stories to make your answer more authentic
- Include a range of descriptive vocabulary and emotional expressions
- Maintain good eye contact and natural body language
- Structure your response clearly with appropriate linking words
- Practice speaking about gifts from different perspectives to prepare for various question types
Remember that like describe a moment when you received unexpected help, your ability to express gratitude and emotion authentically can significantly impact your speaking score.
