As an experienced IELTS examiner, I understand the importance of being well-prepared for the speaking test, particularly when it comes to describing unexpected events that disrupt our routines. In this article, we’ll explore how to approach the topic “Describe a time when you had to change your routine due to an unexpected event” and provide you with valuable insights to help you achieve a high band score in your IELTS Speaking test.
Understanding the Topic
The ability to discuss unexpected changes in routine is a common theme in IELTS Speaking tests. It assesses your capacity to narrate personal experiences, express emotions, and describe adaptations to unforeseen circumstances. This topic has appeared frequently in past IELTS exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests due to its universality and the range of language skills it allows candidates to demonstrate.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask you general questions about your daily routine and how you handle changes. Here are some possible questions:
- Do you like to follow a routine in your daily life?
- How do you usually react when your plans change unexpectedly?
- Can you tell me about a recent change in your daily routine?
Let’s look at a sample answer for the third question:
Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
“Well, recently, I had to adjust my morning routine due to some construction work in my neighborhood. The noise starts quite early, around 6 AM, so I’ve had to wake up earlier than usual to get some quiet time for meditation and reading. It was challenging at first, but I’ve come to appreciate the extra time in the morning. It’s given me a chance to be more productive and start my day on a positive note.”
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Now, let’s focus on the main topic with a cue card:
Describe a time when you had to change your routine due to an unexpected event.
You should say:
- What the unexpected event was
- How it affected your routine
- What changes you had to make
- How you felt about this experience
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“I’d like to talk about a time when an unexpected power outage forced me to change my daily routine. It happened last summer during a particularly hot week.
The power went out in my entire neighborhood due to a technical issue at the local power station. This affected my routine significantly because I rely heavily on electricity for many daily tasks.
I had to make several changes to adapt to the situation. Instead of using my electric stove, I had to cook simple meals on a camping stove. I couldn’t use my computer for work, so I had to go to a nearby café with internet access. In the evenings, I read books by candlelight instead of watching TV or browsing the internet.
At first, I felt frustrated and inconvenienced by the situation. However, as time went on, I began to appreciate the simpler lifestyle. It was a good reminder of how dependent we are on technology and made me more grateful for modern conveniences when the power was restored.”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to recount an instance when an unanticipated power outage compelled me to drastically alter my daily routine. This incident occurred during an exceptionally sweltering week last summer.
The blackout, caused by a major technical malfunction at the local power station, affected my entire neighborhood. This event had a profound impact on my routine, as I heavily rely on electricity for numerous daily activities.
To adapt to these extraordinary circumstances, I had to implement several changes. Instead of utilizing my electric stove, I resorted to preparing simple meals on a portable camping stove. My work, which typically involves extensive computer use, necessitated a relocation to a nearby café with internet access. Evenings that were usually spent watching television or browsing the internet were replaced with reading books by candlelight, harking back to a bygone era.
Initially, I felt a mix of frustration and discomfort at the inconvenience. However, as time progressed, I began to discern the silver lining in this situation. The experience served as a poignant reminder of our technological dependence and fostered a deeper appreciation for modern conveniences once power was restored. Moreover, it compelled me to be more resourceful and adaptable, skills that I now value greatly.”
Follow-up Questions
- How did this experience change your perspective on reliance on technology?
- What lessons did you learn from having to adapt to this unexpected situation?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9) for Question 1:
“This experience was truly eye-opening and profoundly altered my perspective on our reliance on technology. It made me acutely aware of how deeply integrated technology is in our daily lives, often to an extent we don’t fully realize until it’s suddenly unavailable. I came to appreciate the convenience and efficiency that technology brings to our routines, but also recognized the importance of not becoming overly dependent on it.
The power outage served as a catalyst for me to reflect on the balance between technological reliance and self-sufficiency. It prompted me to cultivate some ‘analog’ skills and hobbies that don’t require electricity, such as reading physical books more often or learning to play an acoustic instrument. This experience has led me to adopt a more mindful approach to technology use, ensuring that I maintain a healthy balance and don’t lose touch with simpler ways of living and entertaining myself.”
Unexpected routine change
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In Part 3, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:
Examiner: How do you think people generally cope with unexpected changes in their lives?
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“I think people cope with unexpected changes in different ways. Some people are very flexible and can adapt quickly, while others find it more difficult. Generally, I believe most people try to find solutions to the problems caused by the change. They might ask for help from friends or family, or look for information online. Some people might feel stressed at first but then try to see the positive side of the situation.”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“The way individuals navigate unexpected changes in their lives can vary significantly, often depending on their personality, past experiences, and support systems. Some people demonstrate remarkable resilience, quickly adapting to new circumstances and even thriving in the face of change. These individuals often possess a growth mindset, viewing challenges as opportunities for personal development.
On the other hand, some people may initially struggle with the disruption to their routine and comfort zone. They might experience stress, anxiety, or resistance to the change. However, many eventually develop coping strategies, such as seeking support from their social network, researching solutions, or practicing mindfulness techniques to manage stress.
Interestingly, unexpected changes can sometimes act as catalysts for personal growth. They can force individuals to develop new skills, reassess their priorities, or discover untapped strengths. In many cases, people emerge from these experiences with increased adaptability and a broader perspective on life.
Ultimately, while the initial reaction to unexpected change may vary, most people tend to find ways to adjust and move forward, often discovering new aspects of themselves in the process.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To achieve a high band score, it’s crucial to use a wide range of vocabulary and complex sentence structures. Here are some key terms and phrases that can elevate your speaking performance:
Unanticipated (adjective) /ʌnˈæn.tɪs.ɪ.peɪ.tɪd/ – not expected or predicted
Example: “The unanticipated snowstorm forced us to cancel our outdoor plans.”Adapt (verb) /əˈdæpt/ – to change, or to change something, to suit different conditions or uses
Example: “We had to adapt quickly to the new work-from-home policy.”Resilience (noun) /rɪˈzɪl.i.əns/ – the ability to be happy, successful, etc. again after something difficult or bad has happened
Example: “Her resilience in the face of adversity was truly inspiring.”Profound impact (phrase) – a very significant or deep effect
Example: “The unexpected job loss had a profound impact on his career plans.”Catalyst (noun) /ˈkæt.əl.ɪst/ – something that causes an important event to happen
Example: “The power outage acted as a catalyst for me to reassess my reliance on technology.”
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when discussing unexpected changes to your routine:
- Practice narrating personal experiences fluently and coherently.
- Develop a rich vocabulary related to change, adaptation, and emotions.
- Use a variety of sentence structures to demonstrate linguistic flexibility.
- Provide specific examples to support your points and make your answers more engaging.
- Reflect on the broader implications of your experiences to show depth of thought.
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Aim for fluency, coherence, and natural expression while showcasing your language skills.