When preparing for the IELTS Speaking test, discussing personal experiences with compliments is a common topic that frequently appears. This guide will help you craft compelling responses about a time when you received an unexpected compliment, with sample answers across different band scores.
IELTS candidate preparing for speaking test about unexpected compliments
Part 1: Introduction and Interview Questions
Common questions you might encounter:
- Do you often receive compliments?
- How do you usually respond to compliments?
- Is it common to give compliments in your culture?
Similar to describe a time you were praised for your work, here’s a sample answer for the first question:
Band 8-9 Response:
“Well, I occasionally receive compliments, and I must say it always gives me a boost of confidence. I find that most compliments I receive are about my work ethic and attention to detail, particularly in professional settings.”
Part 2: Cue Card
Describe a time when you received an unexpected compliment
You should say:
- Who gave you the compliment
- What the compliment was about
- When and where it happened
- And explain why it was unexpected
IELTS speaking candidate delivering structured response about compliments
Band 6-7 Sample Answer:
“I’d like to talk about a time when my professor complimented my presentation skills. It happened during my final year at university. I was giving a presentation about environmental conservation, and I was quite nervous. After I finished, my professor said my presentation was very well-organized and my delivery was natural. I didn’t expect this because I usually get anxious speaking in public.”
Band 8-9 Sample Answer:
“I’d like to share an experience that caught me completely off guard. During my final year at university, I was tasked with delivering a presentation on environmental conservation – a topic I was deeply passionate about. As I was wrapping up my presentation, my usually reserved professor Dr. Thompson went out of his way to commend not just my thorough research, but also my engaging delivery style. What made this compliment particularly unexpected was that she was renowned for her exacting standards and rarely offered such effusive praise.”
For those interested in describe a moment when you felt proud of someone else, this pattern of detailed storytelling can be equally effective.
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Q: Why do some people find it difficult to accept compliments?
Band 8-9 Response:
“I believe there are multiple factors at play. Firstly, some people may have been brought up in cultures where modesty is highly valued, making them uncomfortable with direct praise. Additionally, those with low self-esteem might struggle to reconcile positive feedback with their own self-image. It’s also worth noting that some individuals might be wary of appearing conceited if they accept compliments too readily.”
Similar to describe a time when you received a compliment from someone, the key is to provide detailed explanations with specific examples.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
- Catch someone off guard – to surprise someone
- Go out of one’s way – to make a special effort
- Take aback – to surprise or startle someone
- Genuinely touched – sincerely moved emotionally
- Boost one’s confidence – to increase self-assurance
Key vocabulary and phrases for discussing unexpected compliments
Examiner’s Tips
- Use a mix of simple and complex structures
- Include specific details and personal reactions
- Show natural hesitation markers but maintain fluency
- Demonstrate awareness of cultural differences in giving/receiving compliments
Understanding how to discuss describe a time when you felt proud of your accomplishment can help you better articulate unexpected compliments as well.
