Describing a time when you had to wait for something important is a common topic in IELTS Speaking tests. This theme allows examiners to assess your ability to narrate personal experiences, express emotions, and use a range of vocabulary and grammar structures. Let’s explore how to excel in this topic and boost your IELTS Speaking score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about waiting experiences. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
- Do you like waiting?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“To be honest, I’m not particularly fond of waiting. I tend to get a bit restless and impatient, especially if I’m anticipating something important. However, I’ve learned to use waiting time productively by reading or catching up on emails on my phone.”
- What do you usually do while waiting?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I try to make the most of waiting time by engaging in productive activities. For instance, I often catch up on my reading, whether it’s a novel I’m in the middle of or some industry-related articles. Alternatively, I might use the time to plan my day or week ahead, jotting down ideas or to-do lists in my notes app. Sometimes, I even practice mindfulness through brief meditation sessions, which helps me stay calm and centered.”
How to describe a time you had to wait for something important in IELTS Speaking can provide additional insights on tackling this topic effectively.
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:
Describe a time when you had to wait for something important. You should say:
- What you were waiting for
- How long you had to wait
- Why it was important
- How you felt about the waiting experience
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about the time I had to wait for my university acceptance letter. This was a pivotal moment in my life as it would determine my future academic path and career prospects.
The waiting period was particularly nerve-wracking, lasting about two months after I submitted my application. During this time, I was on tenterhooks, constantly checking my email and the university’s online portal for any updates.
This acceptance was crucial to me for several reasons. Firstly, this university offered a specialized program in environmental engineering, which aligned perfectly with my career aspirations. Secondly, it had a stellar reputation for research and innovation in sustainable technologies, an area I’m deeply passionate about.
The waiting experience was a rollercoaster of emotions. Initially, I felt a mix of excitement and anxiety, anticipating the possibility of embarking on this new chapter of my life. As days turned into weeks, I experienced bouts of impatience and self-doubt, questioning whether my application was strong enough.
To cope with the waiting, I tried to keep myself occupied with various activities. I delved into books related to my field of interest, which not only distracted me but also prepared me for potential university studies. I also took up meditation to manage my stress levels and maintain a positive outlook.
In retrospect, this waiting period taught me valuable lessons about patience and self-reflection. It gave me time to contemplate my goals and reinforced my commitment to my chosen field. When I finally received the acceptance letter, the joy and relief I felt were indescribable, making the wait entirely worthwhile.”
Follow-up questions:
- How did this experience change your perspective on waiting?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“This experience was truly transformative in terms of how I view waiting. It taught me that waiting can be a valuable period of growth and self-discovery. I learned to embrace uncertainty and use it as a catalyst for personal development. Now, I see waiting not as idle time, but as an opportunity to prepare, reflect, and cultivate patience – skills that are invaluable in both personal and professional life.”
- What strategies did you develop to manage anxiety during long waiting periods?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“To manage anxiety during extended waiting periods, I developed several coping strategies. Firstly, I learned to break down the waiting time into smaller, manageable chunks, focusing on short-term goals rather than the distant outcome. Additionally, I found that engaging in physical exercise, particularly yoga and jogging, helped alleviate stress and improve my overall mood. Lastly, I made a conscious effort to maintain open communication with friends and family, sharing my concerns and receiving emotional support, which proved invaluable in maintaining a positive outlook.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner might ask more abstract questions related to waiting and patience. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
- Do you think people in modern society are becoming less patient? Why or why not?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“There’s a compelling argument to be made that people in modern society are indeed becoming less patient. This shift can be largely attributed to the rapid advancement of technology, which has conditioned us to expect instant gratification in many aspects of our lives. From fast food to high-speed internet and on-demand streaming services, we’ve grown accustomed to having our needs met almost immediately.
However, it’s important to note that this trend isn’t universal. In some areas, we’re seeing a counter-movement that values slow living and mindfulness. This includes practices like slow food, digital detoxes, and meditation, which all require and cultivate patience.
Ultimately, I believe that while technology has generally reduced our patience thresholds, there’s a growing awareness of the importance of patience in our fast-paced world. This awareness is leading some individuals to actively work on developing patience as a valuable life skill.”
- How can waiting experiences be beneficial in personal development?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Waiting experiences can be incredibly beneficial for personal development in several ways. Firstly, they teach us patience, which is a crucial life skill. In a world of instant gratification, learning to wait calmly can set us apart and help us maintain composure in challenging situations.
Secondly, waiting periods often provide us with time for self-reflection. This can lead to increased self-awareness and personal growth. We might use this time to reassess our goals, values, and priorities.
Lastly, waiting can foster resilience and perseverance. When we have to wait for something important, we learn to cope with uncertainty and maintain hope in the face of delayed gratification. This resilience can be applied to many other areas of life, helping us to persist in the pursuit of long-term goals.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
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On tenterhooks (idiom) – /ɒn ˈtɛntəhʊks/ – In a state of suspense or anxiety
Example: “I was on tenterhooks while waiting for the job offer.” -
Nerve-wracking (adjective) – /nɜːv ˈrækɪŋ/ – Causing stress or anxiety
Example: “The waiting period before the exam results was nerve-wracking.” -
To cope with (phrasal verb) – /təʊ kəʊp wɪð/ – To deal effectively with something difficult
Example: “I learned various techniques to cope with the stress of waiting.” -
Anticipation (noun) – /ænˌtɪsɪˈpeɪʃən/ – The action of anticipating something; expectation
Example: “The anticipation of the concert made the waiting almost unbearable.” -
To delve into (phrasal verb) – /təʊ dɛlv ˈɪntəʊ/ – To research or examine something thoroughly
Example: “To distract myself, I delved into books about my field of study.”
Describe a favorite childhood activity can provide additional examples of how to use descriptive language effectively in your IELTS Speaking responses.
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing a waiting experience:
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Use a variety of vocabulary and avoid repetition. Incorporate idiomatic expressions and advanced vocabulary where appropriate.
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Develop your answers fully, providing specific details and examples to support your points.
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Use a range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences and appropriate tenses.
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Maintain fluency by speaking at a natural pace and using appropriate linking words.
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Show your ability to discuss abstract ideas, especially in Part 3, by providing thoughtful and well-developed responses.
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Practice describing various waiting experiences to improve your ability to narrate events and express emotions effectively.
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Confidence, clarity, and coherence are just as important as the content of your responses.
Describe an event where you made a new friend can offer additional practice in narrating personal experiences, which is crucial for topics like describing a waiting experience.
By following these guidelines and continuously practicing, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle any question about waiting experiences in your IELTS Speaking test, helping you achieve the score you’re aiming for.