The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about personal experiences, and one common topic is describing a time when you encountered something new and exciting. This theme allows examiners to assess your ability to narrate events, express emotions, and use a range of vocabulary. Let’s explore how to approach this topic effectively to achieve a high band score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions related to new experiences. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:
Do you enjoy trying new things?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I do. I think it’s important to step out of your comfort zone sometimes and experience new things. It helps you grow as a person.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely! I’m an avid enthusiast when it comes to novel experiences. I firmly believe that embracing new challenges and stepping into uncharted territory is crucial for personal growth and broadening one’s horizons. It’s through these experiences that we often discover hidden talents or unexpected passions.
What’s the most exciting new thing you’ve tried recently?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Recently, I tried rock climbing for the first time. It was quite challenging but also very exciting. I felt a real sense of achievement when I reached the top.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Just last month, I took the plunge and participated in an immersive virtual reality experience that simulated deep-sea exploration. It was utterly captivating and truly pushed the boundaries of what I thought was possible in terms of digital experiences. The level of detail and the sense of actually being underwater were simply breathtaking.
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:
Describe a time when you experienced something new and exciting
You should say:
- What the experience was
- When and where it happened
- Who you were with
- And explain why it was new and exciting for youSample Answer (Band 8-9):
I’d like to talk about an exhilarating experience I had last summer when I went paragliding for the first time. This thrilling adventure took place in the scenic mountains of Switzerland, near Interlaken, which is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and adventure sports.
I was on a backpacking trip through Europe with two of my closest friends from university. We had been planning this trip for months, and paragliding was at the top of our bucket list. The day of our flight was picture-perfect – clear blue skies and ideal wind conditions.
As we ascended the mountain in a cable car, my heart was racing with a mixture of excitement and nervousness. The anticipation built as we watched other paragliders take off, their colorful canopies dotting the sky. When it was finally my turn, I was paired with an experienced instructor who reassured me and explained the process in detail.
The moment we ran off the cliff and caught the wind was absolutely surreal. Suddenly, we were airborne, and the sensation was unlike anything I had ever experienced before. The panoramic views of the snow-capped Alps, pristine lakes, and lush green valleys below were awe-inspiring. It felt like I was floating effortlessly, almost as if I had grown wings.
This experience was new and exciting for me on multiple levels. Firstly, it was my first time engaging in such an extreme sport, which pushed me out of my comfort zone and gave me an adrenaline rush like never before. Secondly, the unique perspective of seeing the world from above was mind-blowing and gave me a newfound appreciation for the beauty of nature.
Moreover, the feeling of conquering my fears and achieving something I never thought I’d have the courage to do was incredibly empowering. It taught me the importance of embracing new challenges and the rewards that come with taking calculated risks.
In conclusion, this paragliding experience was not just a thrilling adventure, but also a transformative moment that broadened my horizons and instilled in me a desire to seek out more novel and exciting experiences in life.
Follow-up Questions:
- How did this experience change you?
- Would you recommend this experience to others? Why or why not?
Band 8-9 Sample Answers:
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This experience was truly transformative. It significantly boosted my self-confidence and taught me the value of stepping out of my comfort zone. Since then, I’ve become more open to taking on new challenges in various aspects of my life, whether it’s in my career or personal pursuits. It also gave me a fresh perspective on life, reminding me to appreciate the beauty around us and to live life to the fullest.
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I would wholeheartedly recommend this experience to others, with a few caveats. Paragliding offers an unparalleled sense of freedom and provides a unique way to appreciate nature’s beauty. However, it’s crucial to ensure that you’re physically and mentally prepared for such an adventure. I’d advise people to choose a reputable company with experienced instructors and to be aware of their own limitations. Ultimately, the exhilaration and personal growth that come from such an experience make it incredibly worthwhile for those who are up for the challenge.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to new experiences and excitement. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
Why do you think some people prefer familiar experiences over new ones?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I think some people prefer familiar experiences because they feel more comfortable and safe. New experiences can be scary and unpredictable, which some people don’t like.
Band 8-9 Answer:
There are several reasons why individuals might gravitate towards familiar experiences. Firstly, humans are inherently creatures of habit, and familiarity provides a sense of comfort and security. This preference for the known can be attributed to our evolutionary instincts, as familiar situations are perceived as safer and less threatening.
Moreover, new experiences often require additional mental and emotional energy, which some people may find taxing. In our fast-paced, stress-filled world, sticking to the familiar can be a form of self-care for those who are already feeling overwhelmed by daily life.
Additionally, past negative experiences with new situations might make some individuals more risk-averse, leading them to prefer the predictability of familiar experiences. It’s also worth noting that cultural factors can play a role, as some societies place a higher value on tradition and consistency rather than novelty and change.
How can trying new things benefit society as a whole?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Trying new things can help society progress. When people try new things, they might discover better ways of doing things or come up with new inventions. This can lead to improvements in various areas like technology or healthcare.
Band 8-9 Answer:
The pursuit of novel experiences and ideas can have profound and far-reaching benefits for society as a whole. Firstly, it fosters innovation and progress across various sectors. When individuals and organizations are open to new approaches, it often leads to groundbreaking discoveries and advancements in fields such as technology, medicine, and environmental sustainability.
Furthermore, embracing new experiences promotes cultural exchange and understanding. As people engage with unfamiliar cultures, traditions, and perspectives, it broadens their worldview and enhances empathy. This, in turn, can lead to more inclusive and harmonious societies.
From an economic standpoint, the willingness to try new things drives entrepreneurship and economic growth. It encourages the creation of new industries, products, and services, which can generate employment opportunities and boost economic development.
Moreover, on a societal level, a collective openness to new experiences can enhance problem-solving capabilities. When faced with complex global challenges, a diverse range of perspectives and innovative thinking is crucial for developing effective solutions.
Lastly, the pursuit of novelty can contribute to individual and collective well-being. It keeps communities dynamic and engaged, promoting lifelong learning and personal growth, which are essential for a thriving society.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
To achieve a high band score, it’s crucial to use a range of sophisticated vocabulary and phrases. Here are some examples from the sample answers above, along with their definitions and additional usage examples:
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Exhilarating (adjective) /ɪɡˈzɪləreɪtɪŋ/: Making one feel very happy, animated, or elated.
Example: The exhilarating rush of skydiving left me wanting more adventure. -
Thrilling (adjective) /ˈθrɪlɪŋ/: Extremely exciting or entertaining.
Example: The thrilling conclusion of the movie had everyone on the edge of their seats. -
Awe-inspiring (adjective) /ˈɔː ɪnˌspaɪərɪŋ/: Inspiring great admiration or awe.
Example: The awe-inspiring view from the mountain summit made the challenging climb worthwhile. -
Mind-blowing (adjective) /ˈmaɪnd ˌbləʊɪŋ/: Overwhelming; astounding.
Example: The mind-blowing advances in artificial intelligence are reshaping many industries. -
Transformative (adjective) /trænsˈfɔːmətɪv/: Causing a marked change in someone or something.
Example: Her year abroad was a transformative experience that changed her perspective on life. -
To push out of one’s comfort zone (phrase): To do something that is outside of one’s usual experiences or habits.
Example: Learning a new language really pushed me out of my comfort zone, but it was incredibly rewarding. -
To broaden one’s horizons (phrase): To expand the range of one’s knowledge, experience, or interests.
Example: Traveling to different countries is an excellent way to broaden your horizons and gain new perspectives. -
To take the plunge (idiom): To commit oneself to a course of action about which one is nervous.
Example: After months of hesitation, I finally took the plunge and started my own business.
Tips from an Examiner
As an experienced IELTS examiner, I would offer the following advice to candidates aiming for a high band score in the Speaking test:
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Practice narrating experiences: Regularly practice describing events and experiences in detail. Focus on structuring your narrative logically and including relevant information about when, where, who, what, and why.
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Expand your vocabulary: Work on incorporating a wide range of sophisticated vocabulary and idiomatic expressions. However, ensure you use them accurately and naturally.
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Develop your ideas: Don’t just give short answers. Elaborate on your points, provide examples, and explain your reasoning. This demonstrates your ability to communicate complex ideas effectively.
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Work on fluency: Aim to speak smoothly and confidently, without too many hesitations or pauses. Regular practice with a language partner can help improve your fluency.
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Pay attention to pronunciation: While a perfect accent isn’t necessary, clear pronunciation is crucial. Focus on word stress, sentence stress, and intonation to enhance your clarity.
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Be authentic: While it’s good to prepare, avoid memorizing scripted answers. Examiners are trained to detect this, and it can negatively impact your score. Instead, focus on expressing your genuine thoughts and experiences.
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Stay calm and positive: Remember, the examiner is there to give you opportunities to demonstrate your English skills, not to trick you. Stay relaxed and approach the test with a positive attitude.
By following these tips and consistently practicing, you can significantly improve your performance in the IELTS Speaking test and increase your chances of achieving a high band score.
Learn more about describing a new hobby you want to start to further enhance your speaking skills and expand your vocabulary for discussing new experiences.