Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to answer the IELTS Speaking question “Describe a time when you helped someone with a problem.” In this guide, we will provide valuable tips, sample answers, and effective strategies to help you score high in your IELTS Speaking test.
I. Understanding the IELTS Speaking Test
The IELTS Speaking test comprises three parts: Introduction and Interview (Part 1), Long Turn (Part 2), and Two-way Discussion (Part 3). Each part has specific requirements and different types of questions, and examiners assess you on criteria such as fluency and coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range and accuracy, and pronunciation.
Why This Topic is Popular
Questions about helping someone are common in IELTS speaking tests because they allow examiners to assess your ability to describe personal experiences, use descriptive language, and demonstrate your skills in storytelling and empathy.
II. Key Sections of the IELTS Speaking Test
1. Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner will ask general questions about yourself and a range of familiar topics. Here are some common questions and a sample answer.
Common Question:
- Do you often help people?
Sample Answer:
“Yes, I often help people whenever I can. For example, last week, I assisted my neighbor in fixing his computer. He was struggling with a software issue, and since I have experience with tech, I was able to resolve it quickly. It felt gratifying to see his relief and appreciation.”
2. Part 2: Long Turn
In Part 2, you will be given a cue card with a specific topic. You will have one minute to prepare and then need to speak for 1-2 minutes. Here is a cue card based on our topic and a suggested answer.
Cue Card:
Describe a time when you helped someone with a problem. You should say:
- Who you helped
- What the problem was
- How you helped
- And explain how you felt after helping them
Suggested Answer:
“Last year, I helped my close friend, Sarah, who was struggling with her final year thesis. She was overwhelmed with the vast amount of research and didn’t know how to organize her findings. I sat down with her and went through all her notes, helping her to categorize the information into main themes and subtopics. We created a structured outline together, which made it easier for her to write her thesis. I also helped in proofreading and refining her drafts. Seeing Sarah’s relief and gratitude was immensely rewarding, and I felt a deep sense of satisfaction knowing that I had made a difference in her academic journey.”
Follow-up Bullet Points:
- Did the person you helped achieve their goal?
- Why do you think helping others is important?
- How has this experience impacted you?
3. Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In Part 3, the examiner will engage you in a broader discussion related to the topic in Part 2.
Examiner Questions:
- Why do you think people are sometimes reluctant to ask for help?
- What are the benefits of helping others in society?
- How can schools encourage students to help others?
Suggested Answers:
Why do you think people are sometimes reluctant to ask for help?
“People may be reluctant to ask for help due to pride or fear of being perceived as weak or incompetent. There’s also a concern about bothering others or feeling a burden, which can hinder individuals from reaching out when they genuinely need assistance.”
What are the benefits of helping others in society?
“Helping others fosters a sense of community and strengthens social bonds. It can also promote mental well-being for both the helper and the recipient. Acts of kindness can create a ripple effect, encouraging others to participate in altruism, ultimately leading to a more compassionate and supportive society.”
How can schools encourage students to help others?
“Schools can promote a culture of helping others by integrating community service projects into the curriculum. They can also encourage peer mentoring programs where older students assist younger ones. Recognizing and rewarding acts of kindness in school assemblies can also motivate students to be more supportive and empathetic towards each other.”
III. Vocabulary and Expressions for High Scores
Here are some key vocabulary words and expressions to help you enhance your answer:
Gratifying /ˈɡrætɪfaɪɪŋ/: Giving pleasure or satisfaction
- Example: “It felt very gratifying to see her improve.”
Overwhelmed /ˌoʊvərˈwɛlmd/: Feeling buried or drowned beneath a huge mass
- Example: “She was overwhelmed with the work.”
Empathy /ˈɛmpəθi/: The ability to understand and share the feelings of another
- Example: “Empathy is crucial in forming strong relationships.”
Altruism /ˈæltruˌɪzəm/: The selfless concern for the well-being of others
- Example: “Altruism benefits society as a whole.”
Ripple Effect /ˈrɪpəl ɪˈfɛkt/: The continuing and spreading results of an event or action
- Example: “Acts of kindness can create a ripple effect.”
IV. Examiner’s Advice
To achieve high scores in your IELTS Speaking test, practice is crucial. Here are some tips:
- Practice Regularly: Engage in regular speaking practice with friends or language partners.
- Record Yourself: Listen to your recordings to identify areas for improvement.
- Expand Vocabulary: Make a habit of learning new words and phrases every day.
- Stay Calm and Confident: Confidence can significantly impact your performance, so practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques to remain calm during the test.
Improved fluency, enhanced vocabulary, and consistent practice can significantly boost your IELTS Speaking score. For more related topics, you can visit Describe a situation when you had to be honest and Describe a time when you helped someone achieve a goal.
Helping Someone with a Problem
By preparing with these strategies, you’ll be well-equipped to handle similar questions in your IELTS Speaking test with confidence and finesse. Good luck!