In the IELTS Speaking test, Part 2 involves speaking at length on a given topic. Topics like “Describe a situation when you felt very excited” are common. An examiner will evaluate your fluency, coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range, and accuracy. In this article, we will give you a detailed guide and examples to ace this part with a sample answer and necessary phrases.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
Common Examiner Questions and Suggested Answers
-
What is your favorite leisure activity?
- Answer: “My favorite leisure activity is reading, especially mystery novels. It’s a fantastic way to unwind and escape into different worlds.”
-
Do you like trying new things?
- Answer: “Yes, I love trying new things because it broadens my horizons and can be very exciting. For example, last year I learned how to scuba dive.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card
Describe a situation when you felt very excited.
You should say:
- What the situation was
- Where you were
- Who was with you
- And explain why you felt so excited
Sample Answer
“One of the most thrilling moments of my life happened last year when I attended my first live concert of my favorite band, Coldplay. The concert was held at the Wembley Stadium in London, and I went with a group of my closest friends. The atmosphere was electric, with the lights, sounds, and energy of the crowd all contributing to an unforgettable experience. We had been looking forward to this concert for months, anticipating every song they would play.
As soon as the band started their first song, ‘Yellow’, I felt a rush of excitement that words can hardly describe. The combination of the live music, the lights, and being surrounded by thousands of other fans who were equally passionate was just overwhelming. I felt truly ecstatic, and it’s a memory that I cherish deeply. It was not only about the music but also about sharing this experience with my friends who mean the world to me.”
Follow-up Questions
-
What other kinds of events make you feel excited?
- Answer: “Sporting events often get me excited, especially football matches. The thrill of watching a match live, with all the cheering and atmosphere, is hard to match.”
-
Do you think being excited is beneficial?
- Answer: “Absolutely, feeling excited can be very beneficial as it boosts your mood and energy levels, making you more enthusiastic about life and more motivated to achieve your goals.”
Part 3: Two-Way Discussion
Sample Questions and Answers
-
Why do people like to feel excited?
- Answer: “People enjoy feeling excited because it is a positive emotion that provides a break from routine life. Excitement can bring joy and happiness, making life’s experiences more memorable and rewarding.”
-
Is it essential to have exciting experiences in life?
- Answer: “Yes, having exciting experiences is crucial as they add variety and meaning to life. They can also serve as milestones that help individuals remember their life journey more vividly.”
-
What can individuals do to find excitement in their daily lives?
- Answer: “Individuals can find excitement by pursuing their hobbies, learning new skills, traveling, or even trying out adventurous activities like hiking or skydiving. Stepping out of their comfort zone is key.”
Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
-
Electric /ɪˈlektrɪk/ (Adjective): Very exciting or thrilling.
- Example: “The atmosphere was electric at the concert.”
-
Rush of excitement (Noun Phrase): A sudden strong feeling of excitement.
- Example: “I felt a rush of excitement when the plane took off.”
-
Overwhelming /ˌoʊvərˈwɛlmɪŋ/ (Adjective): Very great in amount; very strong.
- Example: “The support from my friends was overwhelming.”
-
Cherish /ˈʧɛrɪʃ/ (Verb): To keep a positive feeling or memory in one’s mind for a long time.
- Example: “I will cherish this moment forever.”
-
Share /ʃɛr/ (Verb): To enjoy an experience or communicate with others.
- Example: “Sharing the excitement with friends made it even better.”
Examiner’s Tips
- Practice regularly: Consistent practice helps in improving fluency and coherence.
- Use a wide range of vocabulary and structures: Demonstrating a rich vocabulary and varied sentence structures can significantly boost your score.
- Be descriptive and expressive: Adding personal anecdotes and feeling words can make your speaking more engaging.
- Stay calm and confident: Confidence can greatly influence your performance. Practice breathing and relaxation techniques to stay calm.
By following these tips and practicing with the provided sample answers, you will be better prepared to handle questions like “Describe a situation when you felt very excited” in your IELTS Speaking exam. Using rich vocabulary and vivid descriptions will not only impress the examiner but also boost your overall score. Good luck!