In the IELTS Speaking test, achieving a high score requires a combination of fluency, coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range and accuracy, and pronunciation. One common topic that appears in the test is describing a situation when you were very excited about something. Let’s delve into how to tackle this topic effectively, incorporating sample questions, answers, and tips to score the highest marks.
I. Introduction
The IELTS Speaking test evaluates several criteria: fluency and coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range and accuracy, and pronunciation. Part 2 of the test, also known as the “Long Turn,” often includes topics like describing an exciting situation. Your ability to illustrate your feelings, provide details, and maintain a logical flow will be scrutinized.
In this guide, we’ll provide a comprehensive strategy and examples for answering such questions, focusing on an actual cue card prompt and progressing through all three parts of the test.
II. Main Content
1. Part 1: Introduction and Interview
The first part involves answering general questions to help you settle into the interview. Here are some common questions an Examiner might ask:
- What do you do in your free time?
- Do you prefer indoor or outdoor activities?
Sample Question and Answer:
Q: What do you do in your free time?
A: In my free time, I enjoy reading novels, particularly mystery and fantasy genres. Additionally, I often go for a jog in the park near my home to stay physically active and clear my mind. Sometimes, I also like to experiment with cooking different cuisines, which I find both challenging and rewarding.
This response highlights varied activities, showcasing the respondent’s engagement in productive and leisure pursuits.
2. Part 2: Long Turn
In Part 2, you’ll receive a cue card with a topic to discuss for one to two minutes. Here is a sample cue card with an organized response.
Cue Card:
Describe A Situation When You Were Very Excited About Something. You should say:
- When the situation happened
- What the situation was
- Who was involved
- Why you felt excited
Sample Answer:
One of the most exciting experiences I’ve ever had occurred last summer when I was notified that I had been accepted into my dream university. This moment has forever etched itself in my memory.
It was a warm afternoon in July when I received the email. I had just returned home from a bike ride and heard my phone buzzing incessantly. The subject line read, “Congratulations!” I clicked it open with bated breath, and when I read the first few lines, I was overwhelmed with exhilaration.
My family was with me at that moment, and they all shared in my joy and excitement. My parents, who had supported my education tirelessly, were as thrilled as I was. We immediately celebrated with a special dinner. Seeing their pride and happiness made the experience even more special.
I felt excited because getting into this university had been my aspiration for as long as I could remember. All the hard work, sleepless nights, and perseverance had finally paid off. It felt as if my dreams were coming true, and I was stepping into a new, promising chapter of my life.
Follow-up Questions:
- What did you do to celebrate your admission?
- How has this achievement impacted your future plans?
Sample Answers:
What did you do to celebrate your admission?
A: To celebrate my admission, my family and I went out for a lavish dinner at my favorite restaurant. Later, my friends surprised me with a small gathering at my house where we played games and reminisced about our school days, which made me feel incredibly loved and supported.
How has this achievement impacted your future plans?
A: This achievement has greatly motivated me to excel in my studies and pursue a career in the field of biomedical engineering. It has given me the confidence to set higher goals and the determination to achieve them.
3. Part 3: Two-Way Discussion
In this part, the Examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic discussed in Part 2 to assess your ability to express opinions and discuss more complex ideas.
Discussion Points and Sample Answers:
Q: Why do people get excited about certain events?
A: People often get excited about events that represent personal milestones, achievements, or any significant change in their lives. These events could be anything from graduating, getting a new job, traveling to a new country, or celebrating a major life event like a wedding. Such moments usually signify growth, new opportunities, and fulfillment of aspirations, which naturally evoke excitement.
Q: How important is it to celebrate achievements?
A: Celebrating achievements is incredibly important as it not only rewards hard work but also provides a moment of reflection and appreciation of one’s journey. It boosts morale, strengthens relationships through shared joy, and can inspire further motivation to pursue other goals.
IV. Vocabulary and Structures for High Scores
Important Vocabulary:
- Excitement /ɪkˈsaɪtmənt/ (n.): A feeling of great enthusiasm and eagerness.
Example: The excitement was palpable when they announced the winner. - Achievement /əˈtʃiːvmənt/ (n.): Something accomplished, especially by superior ability, special effort, or great courage.
Example: Graduating from college was a monumental achievement for her. - Aspiration /ˌæspəˈreɪʃən/ (n.): A strong desire to achieve something high or great.
Example: His aspiration to become an astronaut started in childhood.
Key Structures:
- Past Simple and Past Continuous: To describe events in the past.
Example: I was having lunch when I received the exciting email. - Relative Clauses: To add extra information.
Example: My parents, who had always supported me, were over the moon. - Emphasizing Adjectives/Adverbs: To express strong emotions or conditions.
Example: I was absolutely ecstatic.
V. Advice for Preparation
- Practice Regularly: Record yourself speaking on various topics and listen to identify areas of improvement.
- Expand Vocabulary: Learn and use new words in context to enhance your lexical resource.
- Seek Feedback: Practice with a partner or teacher who can provide constructive feedback.
- Stay Calm: During the test, take deep breaths and think before speaking to maintain fluency and coherence.
By understanding the test format, practicing diligently, and utilizing advanced vocabulary and structures, you can significantly enhance your performance in the IELTS Speaking test.