The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about memorable experiences, and “describe a time when you did something exciting” is a common topic. This theme allows candidates to showcase their vocabulary, fluency, and ability to narrate personal stories. Let’s explore how to effectively answer this question and maximize your speaking score.
Describe an outdoor activity you tried for the first time can also be an exciting experience worth discussing in your IELTS Speaking test. Now, let’s dive into the specific parts of the speaking test and how to tackle this topic.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions related to exciting experiences. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:
Sample Question: Do you enjoy trying new things?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Yes, I do. I think trying new things is a great way to broaden my horizons and learn about myself. It can be a bit scary sometimes, but it’s usually worth it in the end.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“Absolutely! I’m an avid enthusiast when it comes to novel experiences. I find that stepping out of my comfort zone not only enriches my life but also fosters personal growth. The thrill of the unknown is something I actively seek out, as it often leads to the most memorable and transformative moments in life.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card:
Describe a time when you did something exciting
You should say:
- What you did
- When and where you did it
- Who you were with
- And explain why you found it exciting
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to share an exhilarating experience I had last summer when I went skydiving for the first time. This adrenaline-pumping adventure took place at a renowned skydiving center near the coast of California.
I embarked on this thrilling journey with two of my closest friends, who had been trying to convince me to join them for months. We arrived at the center early in the morning, filled with a mix of excitement and trepidation.
The day began with a comprehensive safety briefing and training session. The instructors were highly professional and reassuring, which helped alleviate some of my initial anxiety. As we ascended in the aircraft, the anticipation built, and I could feel my heart racing.
When the moment came to jump, I was overwhelmed with a rush of emotions. The free fall was an indescribable sensation – the wind rushing past, the panoramic view of the coastline, and the sheer exhilaration of defying gravity. After the parachute deployed, there was a surreal moment of tranquility as we glided back to earth.
What made this experience truly exciting was the combination of fear and euphoria. It pushed me beyond my perceived limits and gave me a new perspective on what I’m capable of. The sense of accomplishment upon landing was unparalleled, and it left me with a newfound zest for life.
This experience was not just about the thrill of the jump, but also about conquering my fears and embracing new challenges. It taught me the importance of stepping out of my comfort zone and seizing life-changing opportunities. Since then, I’ve become more open to taking calculated risks and pursuing adventures that enrich my life.”
Follow-up Questions:
- How did this experience change you?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“This experience made me more confident. I realized I could do things I thought were scary before. Now, I’m more willing to try new things and take on challenges.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“This experience was truly transformative. It instilled a newfound sense of confidence in me and broadened my perspective on what I’m capable of achieving. Since then, I’ve become more adept at managing fear and embracing uncertainty in various aspects of my life. It’s also ignited a passion for seeking out new adventures and pushing my boundaries, both personally and professionally.”
- Do you think everyone should try exciting activities?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“I think it’s good for most people to try exciting things, but it depends on the person. Some people might not enjoy it or might find it too stressful. It’s important to know your own limits.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“While I believe that engaging in exciting activities can be immensely beneficial for personal growth, I also recognize that it’s not a one-size-fits-all approach. The definition of ‘exciting’ can vary greatly from person to person. What’s crucial is finding activities that challenge you personally and push you slightly beyond your comfort zone. This could range from extreme sports to learning a new skill or traveling to an unfamiliar place. The key is to strike a balance between excitement and personal well-being, ensuring that the experience is enriching rather than overwhelming.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Sample Questions and Answers:
- Why do you think some people are attracted to dangerous sports?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“I think people like dangerous sports because they’re exciting and give a rush of adrenaline. It’s also a way to test their limits and feel brave. Some people might do it to impress others or to have interesting stories to tell.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“The attraction to dangerous sports is a complex psychological phenomenon. For many, it’s about the intense rush of adrenaline and the euphoria that comes from conquering fear. These activities often provide a unique sense of accomplishment and can be deeply empowering. Moreover, engaging in high-risk activities can alter one’s perception of time, leading to a state of ‘flow’ where one is fully immersed in the present moment. This can be incredibly appealing in our often distracted, fast-paced world. Additionally, there’s a social aspect to consider – participating in dangerous sports can be a way of asserting one’s identity or belonging to a particular subculture. It’s also worth noting that for some, it might be a form of escapism or a way to feel more alive in contrast to the relative safety and predictability of everyday life.”
- How has technology changed the way we experience excitement?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Technology has made it easier to find and try exciting things. We can watch videos of extreme sports online, which might inspire us to try them. Virtual reality can also give us exciting experiences without real danger. But sometimes, technology might make real experiences less exciting because we’re used to seeing them on screens.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“Technology has fundamentally altered our relationship with excitement in multifaceted ways. On one hand, it has democratized access to thrilling experiences through virtual reality and augmented reality technologies, allowing people to simulate high-adrenaline activities from the safety of their homes. This has opened up new avenues for excitement, particularly for those who may have physical limitations or financial constraints.
Moreover, social media and content-sharing platforms have amplified the visibility of exciting activities, often inspiring people to seek out similar experiences in real life. This has led to a kind of ‘experience economy’, where people increasingly value unique, shareable moments over material possessions.
However, there’s also an argument that technology has desensitized us to some extent. The constant bombardment of stimulating content online may have raised our threshold for what we consider exciting, potentially making real-life experiences feel less thrilling by comparison.
Additionally, the omnipresence of smartphones and the ability to instantly share experiences online has changed how we engage with exciting moments. There’s a tension between living in the moment and documenting it for social media, which can sometimes detract from the raw, unfiltered excitement of an experience.
In essence, while technology has expanded our access to exciting experiences, it has also complex implications for how we perceive and value excitement in our lives.”
Describe an exciting activity you experienced is another way this topic might be phrased in the IELTS Speaking test. The strategies discussed here can be applied to various exciting experiences you might want to describe.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
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Adrenaline-pumping (adjective) /əˈdren.əl.ɪn ˌpʌm.pɪŋ/
Definition: Causing excitement and making you feel nervous energy
Example: “Skydiving is an adrenaline-pumping activity that gets your heart racing.” -
To push beyond one’s limits (phrase)
Definition: To exceed what you thought you were capable of doing
Example: “This experience pushed me beyond my limits and showed me what I’m truly capable of.” -
Exhilarating (adjective) /ɪɡˈzɪl.ə.reɪ.tɪŋ/
Definition: Making you feel very excited and happy
Example: “The free fall was an exhilarating experience that I’ll never forget.” -
To step out of one’s comfort zone (phrase)
Definition: To do something that you find challenging or unfamiliar
Example: “Trying new and exciting activities often requires stepping out of your comfort zone.” -
Transformative (adjective) /trænsˈfɔː.mə.tɪv/
Definition: Causing a major change in someone or something
Example: “The skydiving experience was truly transformative, changing my outlook on life.”
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing an exciting experience:
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Use varied vocabulary: Incorporate a range of descriptive words and idiomatic expressions to bring your experience to life.
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Provide detailed examples: Don’t just state facts; elaborate on your feelings, thoughts, and sensory experiences.
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Structure your answer: Use clear organization in Part 2, addressing all points in the cue card systematically.
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Show reflection: In Part 3, demonstrate your ability to think critically about the broader implications of exciting experiences.
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Practice fluency: Aim for smooth delivery with minimal hesitations. Regular practice with a variety of topics will help.
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Engage with the examiner: Make eye contact and show enthusiasm in your tone and body language.
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Be authentic: While it’s good to prepare, ensure your responses sound natural and personal to you.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about describing an exciting experience, but doing so in a way that showcases your English language skills effectively.
Describe an expensive activity you enjoy occasionally could be another exciting experience worth preparing for your IELTS Speaking test. Apply the strategies and vocabulary discussed here to various exciting experiences to be well-prepared for any topic that may arise.