The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about everyday experiences, including products we use or receive. One common topic that may arise is describing a product you got for free. This theme has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests. Let’s explore how to approach this topic effectively to maximize your score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner might ask general questions about free products or gifts. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
- Do you often receive free products?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Not particularly often, but occasionally I do receive free samples or promotional items. For instance, I recently got a free skincare product sample from a cosmetics store. It’s always a pleasant surprise when it happens.”
- What kind of free products have you received recently?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Well, just last month, I was fortunate enough to receive a complimentary smartphone case when I upgraded my mobile plan. It was an unexpected bonus that came with my new contract. The case is quite durable and has a sleek design, which I really appreciate.”
- Do you think companies should give out more free products?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“That’s an interesting question. I believe there are pros and cons to companies distributing free products. On one hand, it can be an effective marketing strategy to introduce new items to potential customers. However, it’s important to consider the environmental impact of producing excess goods. Perhaps a balance could be struck by offering free trials of services instead of physical products.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card
Describe a product you got for free recently.
You should say:
- What the product was
- How you got it
- What you used it for
- And explain how you felt about getting this free product
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“I’d like to talk about a free product I received recently. It was a sample-sized bottle of face moisturizer that I got from a local beauty store. I was shopping for some makeup when one of the salespeople approached me and offered me this free sample. They said it was a new product they were promoting.
I used the moisturizer as part of my daily skincare routine, applying it every morning after washing my face. It had a nice, light texture and a pleasant scent.
Getting this free product made me feel quite happy. It was nice to try something new without having to spend money on it. I appreciated the chance to test the product before deciding whether to buy the full-sized version.”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to share my experience with a complimentary product I received not long ago. It was a state-of-the-art wireless charger that I acquired as part of a promotional campaign by a leading tech company.
I stumbled upon this opportunity while browsing their website for a new smartphone. They were offering this cutting-edge charger as an incentive for customers who signed up for their newsletter. Intrigued by the offer, I decided to subscribe.
I’ve been using this charger extensively for my various devices, particularly my smartphone and wireless earbuds. Its versatility and efficiency have made it an indispensable part of my daily tech setup.
Receiving this product free of charge left me feeling genuinely delighted and pleasantly surprised. It was an unexpected bonus that significantly enhanced my overall user experience with the brand. This generous gesture not only provided me with a useful gadget but also fostered a sense of loyalty towards the company. It’s remarkable how such a small freebie can have such a positive impact on customer perception and satisfaction.”
Follow-up Questions
- Do you think free products are always good quality?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“That’s an intriguing question. In my experience, the quality of free products can vary significantly. While some companies use high-quality free samples as a marketing strategy to showcase their products, others might offer lower quality items simply to attract attention. It’s important for consumers to approach free products with discernment and not assume that ‘free’ always equates to ‘good’. Personally, I’ve found that free products from reputable brands or as part of official promotions tend to be of better quality than random giveaways.”
- Why do you think companies give out free products?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Companies distribute free products for various reasons. Primarily, it’s a marketing technique to introduce new items to potential customers. By allowing people to try products without financial commitment, companies hope to generate interest and boost sales. Additionally, free products can help build brand awareness and customer loyalty. It’s also a way for companies to gather feedback on new products before a full launch.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: Let’s discuss the broader impact of free products in society.
- How do you think free product giveaways affect consumer behavior?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Free product giveaways can have a profound impact on consumer behavior. Firstly, they can create a sense of reciprocity, where consumers feel indebted to the company and are more likely to make a purchase in the future. This psychological effect can be quite powerful in driving sales.
Moreover, free samples allow consumers to experience products firsthand without financial risk, which can lead to increased product adoption and brand loyalty. For instance, if someone receives a free sample of a high-quality skincare product and enjoys using it, they’re more likely to purchase the full-sized version and possibly explore other products from the same brand.
However, it’s worth noting that the effectiveness of free giveaways can vary depending on the product and target audience. In some cases, consumers might become overly reliant on free samples and be less willing to pay full price for products. Additionally, if a free product doesn’t meet expectations, it could potentially damage the brand’s reputation.
In the long term, free product giveaways can shape consumer expectations. As more companies offer freebies, consumers might come to expect them as standard practice, potentially altering the dynamics of customer acquisition and retention strategies across various industries.”
- Do you believe there are any negative consequences of companies giving away free products?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“While free product giveaways can be beneficial, there are potential downsides to consider. One major concern is the environmental impact. Mass production of sample-sized products, often in non-recyclable packaging, can contribute to waste and pollution.
Another issue is that it might devalue the perception of the product or brand. If consumers become accustomed to getting items for free, they might be less willing to pay full price in the future.
There’s also the risk of creating unrealistic expectations. Consumers might expect all companies to offer free products, which isn’t always feasible, especially for smaller businesses.
Lastly, in some cases, free products might be used to disguise lower quality or even harmful ingredients. This could potentially lead to health or safety issues if consumers aren’t careful.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
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Complimentary (adj.) – /kɒmplɪˈment(ə)ri/ – Given free as a courtesy or favor
Example: “The hotel offered complimentary breakfast to all guests.” -
Incentive (n.) – /ɪnˈsentɪv/ – Something that motivates or encourages someone to do something
Example: “Free shipping was offered as an incentive to make a purchase.” -
Stumble upon (phrasal verb) – /ˈstʌmb(ə)l əˈpɒn/ – To find or meet by chance
Example: “I stumbled upon a great deal while browsing online.” -
Cutting-edge (adj.) – /ˌkʌtɪŋ ˈedʒ/ – Very modern and advanced
Example: “The free sample contained cutting-edge technology.” -
Indispensable (adj.) – /ˌɪndɪˈspensəb(ə)l/ – Absolutely necessary
Example: “The free product quickly became an indispensable part of my routine.” -
Foster (v.) – /ˈfɒstə/ – To encourage or promote the development of something
Example: “Free products can foster brand loyalty among customers.”
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when discussing free products:
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Use a wide range of vocabulary, including less common words and phrases related to marketing, consumer behavior, and product descriptions.
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Develop your answers fully, providing reasons and examples to support your points.
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Use varied sentence structures, including complex sentences with linking words and phrases.
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Show your ability to discuss abstract concepts, such as the impact of free products on society or consumer psychology.
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Practice speaking about different types of products and experiences to improve your fluency and confidence.
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Be prepared to critically analyze both positive and negative aspects of topics, demonstrating balanced thinking.
Remember, consistent practice and exposure to English language content will help you improve your speaking skills and achieve a higher band score in your IELTS test.
Describe an important journey that was delayed can be another interesting topic to practice for your IELTS Speaking preparation. It allows you to demonstrate your ability to narrate events and express emotions, which are valuable skills for the test.