IELTS Speaking Test interaction between examiner and candidate
Part 1: Introduction and Interview Questions
Common questions examiners ask about helping others:
- Do you often help other people?
- What kind of help do you usually offer to others?
- Have you ever received help from strangers?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I make it a point to help others whenever possible. I particularly enjoy volunteering at local community centers where I can make a meaningful impact on people’s lives. Recently, I’ve been dedicating my weekends to teaching English to underprivileged children.”
Like describe a piece of advice that helped you, this topic requires careful consideration of personal experiences.
Part 2: Cue Card
Describe a time when you gave up something important to help someone else
You should say:
- What you gave up
- Who you helped
- Why this person needed help
- How you felt about it
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to share an experience that profoundly impacted my perspective on giving. I made the conscious decision to give up my summer internship opportunity at a prestigious company to help my younger sister prepare for her university entrance exams.
The circumstances were particularly challenging as my sister was struggling with advanced mathematics and physics. She had always been an exemplary student, but these subjects were proving to be substantial obstacles. The stakes were incredibly high as her dream of studying engineering hung in the balance.
Similar to describe a time when you celebrated a personal achievement, this sacrifice led to a meaningful outcome.
I dedicated three months of intensive tutoring, breaking down complex concepts and implementing effective study strategies. Though I was initially apprehensive about missing out on valuable work experience, my sister’s success became my priority.
Student helping sibling with academic studies showing dedication and sacrifice
The experience was tremendously rewarding. Watching her confidence grow and eventually secure admission to her desired program made every sacrifice worthwhile. This experience taught me invaluable lessons about priorities and the profound satisfaction of helping others achieve their dreams.”
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“I want to talk about when I gave up my summer job to help my sister with her exams. She was having problems with math and physics, and needed help to pass her university entrance tests. I spent three months helping her study instead of working at a company.
It was hard because I needed the money from the job, but my sister’s education was more important. I felt good about helping her, and she passed her exams in the end.”
Part 3: Discussion Questions
- Why do some people hesitate to help others?
Band 8-9 Response:
“There are multiple complex factors at play. People often grapple with the fear of personal loss or inconvenience. Additionally, modern society’s individualistic nature has created a mindset where personal achievement takes precedence over collective welfare. However, like describe a memorable moment at a family event, helping others can create lasting positive memories.”
- How has technology changed the way people help each other?
Band 8-9 Response:
“Technology has revolutionized charitable giving and assistance. Social media platforms have amplified the reach of charitable causes, while crowdfunding websites have democratized the ability to help others. However, it’s worth noting that describe an unexpected gift you received often carries more meaning when delivered personally rather than through digital means.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
- Make a conscious decision – To make a deliberate choice after careful thought
- Profound impact – Deep, significant effect
- Stakes were high – Important consequences were involved
- Implement effective strategies – Put useful plans into action
- Tremendous(ly) – Extremely, very much
- Grapple with – Struggle to deal with
- Take precedence – To be considered more important
Various ways of helping others in community service activities
Remember to practice these expressions naturally in context and focus on clear pronunciation and appropriate intonation for maximum impact in your speaking test.
