Making sacrifices is a common topic in life, and it’s no surprise that it appears in the IELTS Speaking Exam. In this article, we’ll delve into the question “Describe a time when you had to make a sacrifice,” providing model responses, tips, and vocabulary to help candidates achieve a high band score.
I. Introduction
The IELTS Speaking Test is divided into three parts: Introduction and Interview, Long Turn, and Two-way Discussion. Examiners assess fluency, coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range, and accuracy. Questions about sacrifices are common and test your ability to express complex emotions and personal experiences. Let’s dive into some example questions and model answers.
II. Content
1. Part 1: Introduction and Interview
Common Questions:
- Do you think sacrifices are necessary in life?
- Have you ever made a personal sacrifice?
- Do people in your country often sacrifice for their families?
Sample Question and Answer:
Question: Do you think sacrifices are necessary in life?
Answer:
Absolutely, I believe sacrifices are crucial. They often involve giving up something valuable for a greater good. For instance, while pursuing higher education, one might sacrifice time, money, and even some personal pleasures. These sacrifices can lead to tremendous personal and professional growth.
2. Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card:
Describe a time when you had to make a sacrifice. You should say:
- What the sacrifice was
- Why you had to make the sacrifice
- How you felt about it
- And explain what the outcome was
Model Answer:
One instance that stands out is when I decided to forgo a well-paying job opportunity to take care of a family member. My grandmother fell seriously ill, and as the eldest grandchild, I felt compelled to step up. The job would have provided significant financial benefits, but my family’s needs took precedence. Initially, the decision was tough because it involved a significant compromise in my career plans. However, the emotional satisfaction I gained from being there for my grandmother in her time of need was invaluable. In the end, my grandmother’s health improved, and I felt a deeper bond with my family. Sacrificing the job wasn’t easy, but the experience taught me the importance of family and resilience.
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Further Questions:
- What challenges did you face during this period?
- Would you make the same decision again? Why or why not?
Sample Answers:
Question: What challenges did you face during this period?
Answer:
One of the main challenges was managing the emotional stress while ensuring my grandmother received the best care. Balancing family responsibilities with my personal aspirations was also quite demanding, and there were moments of self-doubt.
Question: Would you make the same decision again? Why or why not?
Answer:
Yes, without a doubt. The experience enriched my life in ways that a job never could. The lessons I learned about compassion and prioritizing loved ones are priceless.
3. Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner Questions:
- What are some common sacrifices people make in their professional life?
- How do cultural differences influence the types of sacrifices people make?
- Do you think making sacrifices makes people stronger?
Model Answers:
Question: What are some common sacrifices people make in their professional life?
Answer:
Professionally, people often sacrifice personal time, hobbies, and social relationships to achieve career success. Many may also relinquish job opportunities or relocate for better prospects, highlighting the tough choices involved in career advancements.
Question: How do cultural differences influence the types of sacrifices people make?
Answer:
Cultural backgrounds significantly influence sacrifice. In collectivist cultures, family obligations often lead to personal sacrifices, such as career postponements. Conversely, in individualist cultures, personal ambitions and achievements might take precedence, leading to different kinds of sacrifices.
Question: Do you think making sacrifices makes people stronger?
Answer:
Absolutely. Sacrifices can forge resilience and foster a deeper understanding of one’s priorities and values. The act of giving up something valuable enhances emotional strength and provides a clearer perspective on what truly matters in life.
Vocabulary and Structures for High Scores
Important Vocabulary:
- Forgo: /fɔːˈɡəʊ/ – to give up or do without something.
- Compelled: /kəmˈpɛld/ – feel obliged to act.
- Compromise: /ˈkɒmprəmaɪz/ – settlement involving concessions.
- Precedence: /ˈprɛsɪdəns/ – considered more important.
- Resilience: /rɪˈzɪljəns/ – capacity to recover quickly from difficulties.
Example Sentences:
- She chose to forgo her vacation to save money for her brother’s tuition.
- Feeling compelled to help, he stayed back to support his team.
- They reached a compromise which involved some give-and-take.
- Family needs often take precedence over personal desires.
- Her resilience was evident as she bounced back from each setback.
III. Conclusion
In the IELTS Speaking Test, it is crucial to prepare for a range of topics, including discussing sacrifices. Effectively sharing your experiences with structured responses, relevant vocabulary, and emotional insights can enhance your score. Practice regularly and seek feedback to refine your skills. Remember, every sacrifice, big or small, has its unique story and impact.