The topic of describing a memorable event from school days is a popular one in IELTS Speaking exams. It allows examiners to assess candidates’ ability to recount past experiences, express emotions, and use appropriate vocabulary. This topic has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests. Let’s explore how to effectively answer questions related to this theme and maximize your score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about your school days. Here are some common questions and a sample answer:
Examiner: “Did you enjoy your time at school?”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Absolutely. My school days were some of the most formative years of my life. I particularly cherished the friendships I formed and the wealth of knowledge I gained from my dedicated teachers. The diverse range of subjects and extracurricular activities really helped shape my interests and skills.”
Describe a memory from childhood that stands out from your school days can be an excellent way to showcase your language skills and personal experiences.
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card:
Describe a memorable event during your school days
You should say:
- What the event was
- When and where it happened
- Who was involved
- Why it was memorable
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“I’d like to talk about my high school graduation ceremony. It took place in June 2015 at our school’s main auditorium. All the graduating students, teachers, and our families were there.
The event started with a speech from our principal, followed by the distribution of diplomas. I remember feeling both excited and nervous as I waited for my name to be called. When I finally walked across the stage to receive my diploma, I felt a sense of accomplishment.
What made this event memorable was the mix of emotions I experienced. I was happy to have completed high school but also sad to be leaving my friends and teachers. It marked the end of an important chapter in my life and the beginning of a new one.
After the ceremony, we took many photos with our classmates and teachers. The day ended with a celebratory dinner with my family. Overall, it was a day filled with joy, pride, and a touch of nostalgia.”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to recount a truly memorable event from my school days – our annual Science Fair in my final year of high school. This eagerly anticipated event took place in May 2015 in our school’s spacious gymnasium, which had been transformed into a hub of innovation and creativity.
The fair involved not just students from my school, but also participants from neighboring institutions, creating a diverse and competitive atmosphere. My team and I had spent months meticulously preparing our project on renewable energy, specifically focusing on harnessing solar power for everyday household use.
What made this event particularly memorable was the culmination of our hard work and the unexpected recognition we received. Our project garnered significant attention from both the judges and visitors, ultimately securing the top prize in the environmental science category. The sense of accomplishment and validation of our efforts was truly exhilarating.
Moreover, the fair provided a platform for us to interact with like-minded peers and industry professionals, broadening our horizons and igniting a passion for scientific research that has stayed with me to this day. The constructive feedback and engaging discussions we had with the judges proved invaluable in shaping my future academic pursuits.
In retrospect, this event stands out as a defining moment in my academic journey, cementing my love for science and instilling in me the confidence to pursue ambitious goals. It serves as a constant reminder of the power of dedication, teamwork, and innovative thinking.”
Follow-up Questions:
Examiner: “How did this event impact your future career choices?”
Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“This event definitely influenced my career path. It made me realize how much I enjoyed scientific research and problem-solving. After the Science Fair, I became more interested in studying environmental science in college.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“The Science Fair proved to be a pivotal moment in shaping my career aspirations. It ignited a passion for environmental science and sustainable technologies that has guided my academic and professional journey ever since. The experience of conducting in-depth research, presenting complex ideas to a diverse audience, and receiving critical feedback from experts in the field provided me with invaluable insights into the world of scientific research. This event essentially laid the foundation for my decision to pursue a degree in Environmental Engineering, with a focus on renewable energy solutions. Moreover, the networking opportunities at the fair opened doors to internships and mentorship programs, which have been instrumental in advancing my career in the field of sustainable technology development.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: “How do you think schools can make learning more memorable for students?”
Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“I think schools can make learning more memorable by organizing more practical activities. For example, they could arrange field trips or invite guest speakers. This would help students connect what they learn in class to real-life situations.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“To enhance the memorability of learning experiences, schools could adopt a multi-faceted approach. Firstly, implementing project-based learning can engage students in solving real-world problems, making the learning process more tangible and relevant. Additionally, incorporating technology such as virtual reality or interactive simulations can create immersive experiences that leave a lasting impression.
Furthermore, fostering a collaborative environment through group projects and interdisciplinary studies can help students develop crucial soft skills while making connections across different subjects. Organizing regular exhibitions or presentations where students can showcase their work to peers, parents, and community members can also boost motivation and create memorable milestones in their academic journey.
Lastly, personalizing the learning experience through adaptive learning technologies and individualized mentoring can help students form stronger connections with the material, making it more memorable and impactful in the long run.”
Describe a memorable school project that involved collaborative learning can be an excellent way to illustrate these points in your IELTS Speaking exam.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Pivotal moment /ˈpɪv.ə.təl ˈməʊ.mənt/ (adjective + noun): A crucial point that has a significant impact.
Example: “The science fair was a pivotal moment in my academic career.”To ignite a passion /ɪɡˈnaɪt ə ˈpæʃ.ən/ (phrasal verb): To spark a strong interest or enthusiasm.
Example: “The event ignited a passion for environmental science in me.”Meticulously /məˈtɪk.jə.ləs.li/ (adverb): With extreme care and precision.
Example: “We meticulously prepared our project for months.”To broaden horizons /ˈbrɔː.dən həˈraɪ.zənz/ (phrasal verb): To expand one’s range of interests, experiences, or knowledge.
Example: “Interacting with professionals at the fair really broadened my horizons.”Invaluable /ɪnˈvæl.ju.ə.bəl/ (adjective): Extremely useful or indispensable.
Example: “The feedback we received from the judges was invaluable.”
Students working together on a group project
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing memorable events:
- Practice storytelling: Develop your ability to recount events in a clear, engaging manner.
- Expand your vocabulary: Learn and use a variety of descriptive words and idiomatic expressions.
- Work on fluency: Aim for smooth delivery without long pauses or hesitations.
- Provide details: Include specific information to make your account more vivid and interesting.
- Express emotions: Convey how the event made you feel to add depth to your description.
- Use a range of tenses: Demonstrate your grammar skills by correctly using past, present, and future tenses where appropriate.
- Prepare for follow-up questions: Be ready to expand on different aspects of your story.
Remember, the key to a high score is not just what you say, but how you say it. Aim for clarity, coherence, and confidence in your delivery.
Describe a time you felt grateful can be an excellent way to practice expressing emotions and using a range of tenses in your IELTS Speaking responses.