The topic “Describe a time when you received an unexpected gift” is a popular one in IELTS Speaking Part 2. It allows candidates to showcase their ability to narrate a personal experience while demonstrating their language skills. Let’s explore how to tackle this topic effectively and achieve a high band score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may warm up with some general questions about gifts. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:
Question: Do you enjoy receiving gifts?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I do enjoy receiving gifts. It’s always nice to know that someone has thought of you and taken the time to choose something special. I particularly appreciate thoughtful gifts that show the giver knows my interests or needs.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely! I find great joy in receiving gifts, especially those that come as a surprise. There’s something truly heartwarming about knowing that someone has invested time and effort into selecting a present specifically for you. I’m particularly fond of gifts that demonstrate a deep understanding of my passions or current circumstances, as they reflect a genuine connection between the giver and myself.
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:
Describe a time when you received an unexpected gift
You should say:
- What the gift was
- Who gave it to you
- Why it was unexpected
- How you felt about receiving it
Band 6-7 Sample Answer:
I’d like to talk about a time when I received an unexpected gift from my best friend, Sarah. It was a beautiful leather-bound journal that she gave me on a random Tuesday afternoon.
The gift was completely unexpected because it wasn’t a special occasion like my birthday or Christmas. Sarah had simply seen the journal in a bookstore and thought of me, knowing how much I enjoy writing.
When she handed me the wrapped package, I was surprised and curious. As I unwrapped it, I felt a mix of excitement and gratitude. The journal was exactly my style, with high-quality paper and a classic design.
I felt touched by Sarah’s thoughtfulness and the fact that she had chosen something so perfect for me without any particular reason. It made me realize how well she knows me and values our friendship.
This unexpected gift brightened my day and inspired me to start writing more regularly. It’s a cherished possession that I still use and appreciate to this day.
Band 8-9 Sample Answer:
I’d like to recount an instance when I was pleasantly surprised by an unexpected gift from my colleague, Emma. The gift in question was an exquisitely crafted, vintage-style fountain pen, which she presented to me on an otherwise ordinary Wednesday morning at the office.
What made this gift particularly unexpected was the sheer randomness of the gesture. It wasn’t my birthday, nor was it any special occasion that would typically warrant gift-giving. Emma had simply stumbled upon this magnificent writing instrument in an antique shop and was instantly reminded of my passion for calligraphy and fine stationery.
As I unwrapped the small, elegantly packaged box, I was overwhelmed with a myriad of emotions. Curiosity gave way to astonishment, which then blossomed into profound gratitude. The pen was an absolute marvel – its sleek design and intricate engravings spoke volumes about Emma’s attention to detail and her deep understanding of my aesthetic preferences.
I was genuinely touched by Emma’s thoughtfulness and her ability to choose such a meaningful gift without any prompting or special occasion. It served as a testament to the strength of our professional relationship and the genuine friendship that had developed between us.
This unexpected gift not only brightened my day immeasurably but also rekindled my enthusiasm for handwritten correspondence. It has since become one of my most treasured possessions, a constant reminder of the power of spontaneous kindness and the importance of nurturing relationships, both personal and professional.
Follow-up Questions:
- Do you think it’s important to give unexpected gifts?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I believe giving unexpected gifts is important. It shows that you’re thinking of someone even when there’s no special occasion. It can strengthen relationships and make people feel appreciated.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely. I firmly believe that the practice of giving unexpected gifts holds immense value in our relationships. Such spontaneous acts of generosity serve to strengthen bonds and foster goodwill. They demonstrate that our thoughts and care for others extend beyond obligatory occasions, reflecting a genuine and ongoing appreciation for the people in our lives. Moreover, unexpected gifts often carry a heightened emotional impact, as they catch the recipient off-guard in the most delightful way, creating lasting memories and deepening connections.
- How has gift-giving changed in your country over the years?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Gift-giving in my country has changed quite a bit. In the past, people usually gave practical gifts, but now there’s more emphasis on personalized and experience-based gifts. Online shopping has also made it easier to find and send gifts.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Gift-giving practices in my country have undergone a significant transformation over the years. Traditionally, the focus was primarily on practical, tangible items that served a clear purpose in the recipient’s daily life. However, we’ve witnessed a paradigm shift towards more personalized and experiential gifts. This change reflects a broader cultural movement that prioritizes memories and personal growth over material possessions.
The advent of e-commerce and digital gifting platforms has revolutionized the way we select and deliver presents. These technological advancements have expanded our options exponentially, allowing us to source unique items from around the globe or even gift virtual experiences. Furthermore, there’s a growing trend towards environmentally conscious gifting, with many opting for sustainable or locally-produced items, aligning gift-giving practices with broader societal concerns about consumption and its environmental impact.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Question: How do you think the act of gift-giving affects relationships?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I think gift-giving can have a positive effect on relationships. It shows that you care about the other person and have put thought into what they might like. Good gifts can make people feel appreciated and strengthen the bond between giver and receiver. However, it’s important not to focus too much on the monetary value of gifts, as this can create pressure or expectations in relationships.
Band 8-9 Answer:
The act of gift-giving, in my opinion, plays a pivotal role in shaping and nurturing relationships. At its core, it serves as a tangible expression of one’s feelings, thoughts, and the value they place on their connection with the recipient. A well-chosen gift can communicate volumes about the giver’s understanding of the receiver’s tastes, needs, and aspirations, thereby deepening the emotional connection between them.
Moreover, gift-giving often catalyzes a cycle of reciprocity in relationships, fostering a sense of mutual care and consideration. It can bridge gaps, mend fences, and reinforce bonds in both personal and professional spheres. The very act of selecting a gift requires one to empathize and consider the perspective of another, which in itself is a valuable exercise in relationship-building.
However, it’s crucial to note that the impact of gift-giving on relationships is not solely dependent on the gift itself, but rather on the intention and thoughtfulness behind it. Excessive or inappropriate gifting can sometimes create undue pressure or feelings of obligation, potentially straining relationships. Therefore, the key lies in striking a balance and ensuring that the act of giving comes from a place of genuine care rather than expectation or duty.
In essence, when approached with sincerity and mindfulness, gift-giving can serve as a powerful tool for strengthening interpersonal connections, fostering goodwill, and creating lasting, positive memories within relationships.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
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Exquisitely crafted (adjective phrase) – /ɪkˈskwɪzɪtli krɑːftɪd/ – Made with great skill and attention to detail
Example: The exquisitely crafted jewelry caught everyone’s attention at the exhibition. -
Pleasant surprise (noun phrase) – /ˈplezənt səˈpraɪz/ – An unexpected but welcome event or gift
Example: Finding an old photo album was a pleasant surprise during our attic cleanup. -
Overwhelmed with emotion (phrase) – /ˌoʊvərˈwelmd wɪð ɪˈmoʊʃən/ – Experiencing very strong feelings
Example: She was overwhelmed with emotion when she saw her long-lost brother. -
Rekindle (verb) – /ˌriːˈkɪndl/ – Revive or renew (something)
Example: The unexpected gift helped to rekindle their friendship after years apart. -
Nurture relationships (phrase) – /ˈnɜːrtʃər rɪˈleɪʃənʃɪps/ – To care for and encourage the growth or development of relationships
Example: It’s important to nurture relationships through regular communication and thoughtful gestures.
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing an unexpected gift:
- Use a variety of descriptive language to make your narrative vivid and engaging.
- Incorporate a range of tenses accurately to describe past events and their impacts.
- Express your emotions and thoughts clearly, using idiomatic expressions where appropriate.
- Structure your response logically, ensuring you cover all points in the cue card.
- Practice speaking for 2 minutes on various topics to improve your fluency and timing.
Remember, the key to success lies in regular practice and expanding your vocabulary. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!
For more tips on how to excel in unexpected situations during your IELTS Speaking test, check out our guide on describing a time when you were very surprised. This will help you prepare for similar topics and improve your overall performance.