Describing a happy memory is a common topic in IELTS Speaking tests, particularly in Part 2. This theme allows candidates to showcase their language skills while discussing personal experiences, making it a favorite among examiners. As we delve into this topic, we’ll explore effective strategies to articulate your thoughts and emotions, helping you achieve a high score in your IELTS Speaking test.

Describe a memorable day spent outdoors can be a great way to practice describing happy memories, as many joyful experiences often occur in natural settings.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask you general questions about happiness and memories. Here are some potential questions and a sample answer:

1. Do you have a good memory?
2. What kinds of things make you happy?
3. Do you think it’s important to keep happy memories?

Let’s focus on the third question:

Examiner: Do you think it’s important to keep happy memories?

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Absolutely, I believe preserving happy memories is crucial for our overall well-being. These positive recollections serve as a source of comfort during challenging times and can boost our mood instantly. Moreover, reflecting on joyful experiences helps us appreciate life more fully and cultivates gratitude. In my opinion, actively cherishing these memories can significantly enhance our mental resilience and contribute to a more optimistic outlook on life.”

Part 2: Long Turn

Here’s a sample cue card related to describing a happy memory:

Describe A Memory That Makes You Happy

You should say:

• What the memory is about
• When and where it happened
• Who was involved
• And explain why this memory makes you happy

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

“I’d like to share a cherished memory that never fails to bring a smile to my face. It’s about the day I successfully organized a surprise birthday party for my grandmother’s 80th birthday.

This memorable event took place about two years ago at our family’s countryside cottage. The planning process was quite intricate as I had to coordinate with numerous relatives scattered across the country. I remember feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness as I orchestrated the preparations.

The day of the party was a whirlwind of activity. My parents and I arrived early to decorate the cottage with vibrant balloons and streamers. We meticulously arranged a beautiful cake and an array of her favorite dishes. As guests began to arrive, there was a palpable sense of anticipation in the air.

When my grandfather finally brought my grandmother to the cottage under the pretense of a quiet family dinner, the look of absolute joy and surprise on her face was utterly priceless. Tears of happiness welled up in her eyes as she saw all her loved ones gathered to celebrate her special day.

This memory brings me immense happiness for several reasons. Firstly, it was incredibly rewarding to see my grandmother so touched and delighted by our efforts. The genuine emotions displayed that day were truly heartwarming. Secondly, it was a rare occasion where our entire extended family came together, creating a sense of unity and love that was profoundly moving.

Moreover, successfully pulling off such a complex surprise gave me a great sense of accomplishment. It taught me the value of careful planning and teamwork, skills that have proven valuable in various aspects of my life since then.

Ultimately, this memory encapsulates the essence of family, love, and the joy of giving. Whenever I recall that day, I’m filled with a warm, fuzzy feeling that never fails to lift my spirits. It serves as a beautiful reminder of the happiness we can create when we come together to celebrate life and the people we cherish.”

A joyful family birthday celebration with an elderly grandmother

Follow-up Questions:

1. How did you manage to keep the party a secret?
2. Were there any challenges in organizing this event?

Sample Answers (Band 8-9):

1. “Keeping the party a secret was quite challenging, but we employed several tactics to ensure its success. We created a private group chat for all involved family members, strictly excluding my grandmother. We also designated specific individuals to distract her in the weeks leading up to the event, ensuring she wouldn’t accidentally overhear any plans. Additionally, we were careful to make all arrangements and purchases discreetly, often using cash to avoid any traceable transactions that might tip her off.”

2. “Organizing this event certainly came with its fair share of challenges. The main obstacle was coordinating logistics for a large number of family members coming from different parts of the country. We had to meticulously plan travel arrangements and accommodations while keeping everything under wraps. Another significant challenge was catering to various dietary restrictions and preferences while ensuring we had all of my grandmother’s favorite dishes. It required a lot of careful planning and communication, but seeing everything come together smoothly on the day made all the effort worthwhile.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic of memories and happiness.

Examiner: Do you think people today are happier than they were in the past?

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“That’s a complex question with no straightforward answer. On one hand, we’ve made significant advancements in areas like healthcare, technology, and human rights, which have undoubtedly improved quality of life for many. These developments have alleviated many physical hardships and provided opportunities that were unimaginable in the past.

However, modern life also brings its own set of challenges. The rise of social media and constant connectivity has led to increased stress, anxiety, and feelings of inadequacy for many people. We’re also facing global issues like climate change and economic uncertainty, which can weigh heavily on people’s minds.

Moreover, our perception of happiness has evolved. In the past, people might have found contentment in simpler things, whereas today, there’s often a relentless pursuit of success and material wealth. This shift in values and expectations could potentially make it harder for people to feel satisfied and happy.

Ultimately, I believe happiness is highly subjective and depends on individual circumstances. While we’ve made progress in many areas, we’ve also created new challenges. Perhaps the key lies in finding a balance – appreciating the advancements of our time while also maintaining connections to the simpler joys that have always been sources of human happiness.”

Describe a memorable hike or trek can be another excellent way to practice describing happy memories, especially those related to outdoor activities and personal achievements.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Source of comfort (noun phrase) – /sɔːs əv ˈkʌmfət/ – Something that provides consolation or relief.
   Example: “Old photographs often serve as a source of comfort during difficult times.”

2. Cultivate gratitude (verb phrase) – /ˈkʌltɪveɪt ˈɡrætɪtjuːd/ – To develop or foster a feeling of thankfulness.
   Example: “Keeping a gratitude journal can help you cultivate gratitude in your daily life.”

3. Enhance mental resilience (verb phrase) – /ɪnˈhɑːns ˈmentl rɪˈzɪliəns/ – To improve one’s ability to cope with mental challenges.
   Example: “Regular meditation can enhance mental resilience and help manage stress.”

4. Orchestrate preparations (verb phrase) – /ˈɔːkɪstreɪt ˌprepəˈreɪʃənz/ – To carefully plan and organize arrangements.
   Example: “The event planner skillfully orchestrated preparations for the grand opening ceremony.”

5. Utterly priceless (adjective phrase) – /ˈʌtəli ˈpraɪsləs/ – Extremely valuable or beyond any monetary value.
   Example: “The look of surprise on her face was utterly priceless and made all our efforts worthwhile.”

6. Profoundly moving (adjective phrase) – /prəˈfaʊndli ˈmuːvɪŋ/ – Deeply affecting one’s emotions.
   Example: “The documentary was profoundly moving, leaving many viewers in tears.”

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when describing happy memories:

1. Practice storytelling: Develop your ability to narrate events coherently and engagingly.
2. Expand your emotional vocabulary: Use a variety of words to describe feelings accurately.
3. Use vivid descriptions: Incorporate sensory details to make your memories come alive.
4. Structure your response: Organize your thoughts logically, addressing all parts of the question.
5. Incorporate idiomatic expressions: Use natural, native-like phrases to enhance your language.
6. Show reflection: Discuss why the memory is significant and how it has impacted you.

Remember, authenticity is key. While it’s important to use advanced vocabulary and structures, ensure your responses remain genuine and personal. Regular practice with a variety of topics will help you become more confident and fluent in expressing your thoughts and experiences.

Describe a time when you shared good news can be an excellent way to practice describing happy memories while also focusing on the act of communication and sharing joy with others.