The IELTS Speaking test is designed to evaluate your ability to communicate effectively in English. It consists of three parts: Introduction and Interview, Long Turn, and Two-way Discussion. As an IELTS Speaking Examiner, I focus on your fluency, coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range and accuracy, and pronunciation. Questions like “Describe a person who has a good sense of humor” are common and offer you an excellent chance to showcase your skills.
In this guide, we’ll break down how you can tackle this topic confidently with sample questions, responses, and tips to achieve a high band score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
Common Questions and Model Answer
Examiners often ask questions to get to know you better and make you feel at ease. Here are a few examples:
- Can you tell me about yourself?
- What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
- Who is someone you admire and why?
Example Question:
“Who is someone you admire and why?”
Suggested Answer:
“One person I truly admire is my older brother. He has a remarkable sense of humor, always knows how to make people laugh, and has been a great source of support and inspiration throughout my life.”
Analysis:
This response answers the question directly, shows fluency, uses appropriate vocabulary, and provides a personal touch.
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card and Sample Answer
During Part 2, you will be given a cue card and you need to speak about the topic for 2-3 minutes.
Cue Card:
Describe a person who has a good sense of humor. You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know this person
- What kind of humor this person has
- And explain why you think this person has a good sense of humor
Sample Answer:
“The person that immediately comes to mind is my friend John. John is the epitome of someone with a fantastic sense of humor. I met him during my first year of university, and we instantly clicked over our shared love for witty jokes and sarcastic humor.
John has a unique blend of self-deprecating humor and observational comedy. He has this incredible ability to find humor in everyday situations, which always lightens the mood. For instance, once during a stressful exam week, John narrated a funny story about his disastrous cooking attempt, which had everyone in stitches.
What sets John apart is his timing and delivery, both of which are impeccable. He knows when to insert a joke to break the tension. I am always in awe of how effortlessly he can make people laugh, even in the direst circumstances. I believe his good sense of humor stems from his sharp mind and optimistic outlook on life. This quality not only entertains those around him but brings us all closer together, making our group outings genuinely enjoyable.
In conclusion, John’s humor is an essential part of his personality and is a big reason why so many people, including myself, enjoy his company immensely.”
Analysis:
This response is comprehensive, covering all points on the cue card. It uses a range of vocabulary, complex sentence structures, and idiomatic language, which are crucial for a high band score.
friends-laughing-together|friends laughing together|a group of diverse friends laughing together outdoors in casual wear
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Sample Questions and Model Answers
In Part 3, expect more abstract questions related to the topic.
Examiner Question:
“Do you think a sense of humor is important in personal relationships?”
Suggested Answer:
“Absolutely, I believe a sense of humor is integral in personal relationships. It brings people closer, helps resolve conflicts, and makes the relationship more enjoyable. Moreover, shared laughter creates lasting memories and strengthens bonds. For example, couples who share jokes and laugh together often have a more resilient relationship because humor can act as a coping mechanism during tough times.”
Analysis:
This answer is clear, concise, and uses advanced vocabulary and examples to illustrate points effectively.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Epitome /ɪˈpɪtəmi/ (noun): a perfect example of a quality or type.
- Example: “She is the epitome of kindness.”
Self-deprecating humor (phrase): humor that is directed at oneself, often understated or modest.
- Example: “His self-deprecating humor made everyone feel at ease.”
Observational comedy (phrase): humor based on everyday life situations.
- Example: “Her observational comedy always highlights the absurdity in mundane activities.”
Impeccable /ɪmˈpekəbl/ (adjective): in accordance with the highest standards of propriety; faultless.
- Example: “Her impeccable manners were admired by all.”
Integral /ˈɪntɪɡrəl/ (adjective): necessary to make a whole complete; essential.
- Example: “Humor is an integral part of maintaining strong relationships.”
Resilient /rɪˈzɪliənt/ (adjective): able to withstand or recover quickly from difficult conditions.
- Example: “Their resilient nature helped them overcome many challenges together.”
Examiner Tips: How to Practice for IELTS Speaking
- Practice Regularly: Simulate exam conditions by speaking on various topics for 2-3 minutes.
- Expand Vocabulary: Learn and incorporate new words and idiomatic expressions.
- Record Yourself: Listening to your recordings helps identify areas for improvement.
- Seek Feedback: Get constructive feedback from teachers or peers.
- Relax: Stay calm and composed during your exam. Confidence can significantly impact your score.
Incorporate these tips and continuously practice to aim for the Band 7, 8 level. For further reference, you can check out related articles on Describe a person you would like to be friends with and Describe a person who made you laugh to broaden your preparation strategy.
Good luck!