Introduction to the Topic
Describing a time when you answered a phone call from someone you didn’t know is a topic that frequently appears in IELTS Speaking tests. This theme allows examiners to assess candidates’ ability to narrate past experiences, express emotions, and use appropriate vocabulary related to communication and technology. Given its relevance to everyday life and its potential to elicit varied responses, this topic is likely to remain popular in future IELTS exams.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about phone calls and communication. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:
Sample Question 1: How often do you receive phone calls from strangers?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“I don’t get calls from strangers very often. Maybe once or twice a month, usually from telemarketers or wrong numbers.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“I’d say I receive calls from unfamiliar numbers relatively infrequently, perhaps once or twice a month at most. These tend to be either misdirected calls or occasionally unsolicited marketing attempts. I’m quite cautious about answering unknown numbers, so I often let them go to voicemail first.”
Sample Question 2: Do you prefer calling or texting?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“I usually prefer texting because it’s quicker and I can reply when I’m free. But for important things, I like calling better.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“I tend to gravitate towards texting for everyday communication as it’s more convenient and allows me to respond at my leisure. However, for matters of importance or when I need to convey nuanced information, I find voice calls far more effective due to the immediate feedback and ability to pick up on tone and emotion.”
IELTS Speaking: Phone Call vs Texting Preferences
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card
Describe a time when you answered a phone call from someone you didn’t know.
You should say:
- When this happened
- Who the caller was
- What the call was about
- And explain how you felt about receiving this call
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
“I’d like to share an experience I had about six months ago when I received an unexpected phone call from an unknown number. It was a typical weekday evening, and I was just settling down to have dinner when my phone started ringing.
Initially, I was hesitant to answer, as I don’t usually pick up calls from numbers I don’t recognize. However, something compelled me to answer this time, and I’m glad I did.
The caller turned out to be a representative from a local animal shelter. They explained that they had found a dog wandering the streets, and when they scanned its microchip, my number came up as the emergency contact. It took me a moment to realize that this was related to a dog I had fostered briefly about two years prior.
The call was about reuniting the dog with its current owner. The shelter staff member asked if I had any information about the family who had adopted the dog from me. Fortunately, I keep detailed records of all the animals I foster, so I was able to provide them with the necessary contact details.
Receiving this call left me feeling a mix of emotions. Initially, I was surprised and a bit confused, given the unexpected nature of the call. As the conversation progressed, I felt a sense of relief and gratitude that I had answered. It was rewarding to know that my decision to pick up an unknown call had potentially helped reunite a lost pet with its family.
This experience reinforced my belief in the importance of microchipping pets and keeping contact information up to date. It also made me reflect on how a simple act, like answering a phone call, can sometimes lead to meaningful outcomes. Overall, I felt pleased to have played a small part in what I hope was a happy reunion between the dog and its owners.”
Lost Dog Microchip Reunion Process
Follow-up Questions
- How do you usually handle unexpected phone calls?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“I usually check the number first. If I don’t know it, I might let it go to voicemail. If it seems important, I’ll call back later.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“My approach to unexpected calls is rather cautious. I typically screen unknown numbers by allowing them to go to voicemail first. If the caller leaves a message indicating urgency or importance, I’ll promptly return the call. However, if it’s a number from an area code I recognize or if I’m expecting a call from an unknown number for business reasons, I’m more likely to answer directly. This method helps me balance being accessible with protecting my time and privacy.”
- Do you think people receive too many unwanted calls nowadays?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Yes, I think so. There are lots of spam calls and telemarketing calls these days. It can be really annoying sometimes.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“I believe the prevalence of unwanted calls has indeed reached problematic levels in recent years. The proliferation of automated dialing systems and the ease of obtaining phone numbers have led to a significant increase in unsolicited communications, ranging from telemarketing to more nefarious scam attempts. This not only causes frustration and disruption in people’s daily lives but can also lead to a sense of invasion of privacy. Moreover, it may result in people becoming overly cautious about answering calls, potentially missing important communications. While there are technological solutions like call-blocking apps, I think more robust regulations and enforcement measures are necessary to strike a balance between legitimate business communication and protecting individuals from harassment.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: How has modern technology changed the way we communicate over long distances?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Modern technology has made long-distance communication much easier and cheaper. We can now use video calls to see people far away, and apps like WhatsApp let us send messages for free. It’s really changed how we stay in touch with family and friends in other countries.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“Modern technology has revolutionized long-distance communication in numerous ways. Perhaps most significantly, it has dramatically reduced the barriers of cost and accessibility that once limited international communication. Video conferencing platforms have made it possible to have face-to-face conversations with people on the other side of the world, fostering a sense of connection that was previously unattainable.
Moreover, instant messaging apps and social media platforms have created an environment of constant connectivity, allowing for real-time communication regardless of geographical boundaries. This has not only transformed personal relationships but has also reshaped business practices, enabling global collaboration and remote work on an unprecedented scale.
However, this technological progress also brings challenges. The ease of communication can sometimes lead to an expectation of constant availability, potentially blurring work-life boundaries. Additionally, while these tools have made communication more accessible, there’s an argument that they may have reduced the depth and quality of our interactions in some cases.
Overall, while modern technology has undoubtedly made long-distance communication more convenient and multifaceted, it has also altered the nature of our connections and raised new questions about balancing connectivity with personal space and meaningful engagement.”
Evolution of Long-Distance Communication Technologies
Examiner: Do you think traditional forms of communication, like letter writing, still have a place in modern society?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“I think letter writing is not as common now, but it’s still nice for special occasions. Some people enjoy getting handwritten letters because they feel more personal than emails or texts. It’s a bit old-fashioned but can be meaningful.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“While digital communication has largely supplanted traditional forms like letter writing in day-to-day life, I believe these older methods still hold a unique and valuable place in modern society.
Firstly, there’s an undeniable charm and intimacy to receiving a handwritten letter that digital messages simply can’t replicate. The physical act of writing, choosing stationery, and the anticipation of waiting for a reply all contribute to a more thoughtful and deliberate form of communication. This can make letters particularly meaningful for special occasions or maintaining long-distance relationships.
Moreover, letter writing can serve as a form of mindfulness in our fast-paced world. It encourages us to slow down, reflect on our thoughts, and express ourselves more carefully. This process can be therapeutic and introspective.
From a cultural perspective, letters also play a crucial role in preserving history. Personal letters offer invaluable insights into past eras, providing a more intimate understanding of historical events and societal changes.
Additionally, in certain professional contexts, formal letters still carry more weight than emails. For instance, in legal matters or highly official communications, a physical letter often conveys a sense of importance and authenticity.
While it’s true that letter writing is no longer a primary mode of communication, its persistence in niche areas demonstrates its enduring value. Rather than becoming obsolete, it has evolved into a more specialized, meaningful practice that complements our digital communication methods, offering a tangible, personal touch in an increasingly virtual world.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Misdirected call [mɪsdɪˈrektɪd kɔːl] (noun phrase): A phone call that reaches the wrong person or number.
Example: “I often receive misdirected calls for the pizza shop that used to have my number.”Unsolicited [ʌnsəˈlɪsɪtɪd] (adjective): Not asked for; given or done voluntarily.
Example: “Many people find unsolicited marketing calls irritating.”Gravitate towards [ˈɡrævɪteɪt təˈwɔːdz] (phrasal verb): To be attracted to or drawn to something.
Example: “I tend to gravitate towards text messaging for quick communications.”Convey nuanced information [kənˈveɪ ˈnjuːɑːnst ˌɪnfəˈmeɪʃn] (phrase): To communicate complex or subtle ideas.
Example: “Face-to-face conversations are better for conveying nuanced information.”Compelling [kəmˈpelɪŋ] (adjective): Evoking interest, attention, or admiration in a powerfully irresistible way.
Example: “There was something compelling about the unknown caller that made me answer.”Proliferation [prəˌlɪfəˈreɪʃn] (noun): Rapid increase in the number or amount of something.
Example: “The proliferation of spam calls has made many people wary of answering unknown numbers.”
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing experiences like answering an unexpected phone call, consider the following tips:
Use a range of vocabulary: Incorporate advanced and topic-specific words naturally in your responses. For instance, use terms like “misdirected call” or “unsolicited communication” when appropriate.
Employ various grammatical structures: Mix simple and complex sentences. Use conditionals, relative clauses, and perfect tenses to demonstrate your grammatical range.
Provide detailed responses: Don’t just answer the question briefly. Elaborate with examples, reasons, and personal experiences to showcase your English proficiency.
Stay coherent and fluent: Organize your thoughts logically and use linking words to connect ideas smoothly. Practice speaking at length about various topics to improve your fluency.
Show critical thinking: In Part 3 especially, demonstrate your ability to analyze topics from different angles and provide balanced viewpoints.
Be authentic: While it’s good to prepare, avoid memorized answers. Examiners appreciate genuine, spontaneous responses that truly reflect your language ability.
Remember, consistent practice and exposure to a wide range of topics will help you feel more confident and perform better during the actual test.