In the IELTS Speaking test, you will be evaluated on your ability to communicate effectively in English. The examiner will assess your fluency and coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range and accuracy, and pronunciation. Questions about past experiences like “Describe a time when you tried something for the first time” are fairly common as they offer a good way to assess narrative skills and descriptive language.
In this article, we will discuss potential questions, provide sample answers, and highlight key vocabulary and structures to help you achieve a high band score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
Example Question and Suggested Answer
Q: Do you enjoy trying new things?
A:
Yes, I absolutely love trying new things because it allows me to expand my horizons and gain new experiences. For example, just last month, I tried rock climbing for the first time. It was a bit daunting initially, but as I got the hang of it, it became incredibly exhilarating.
Analysis:
- “Absolutely love”: Shows enthusiasm and strong positive emotion.
- “Expand my horizons”: A sophisticated phrase to express gaining new experiences.
- “Incredibly exhilarating”: Advanced vocabulary to describe an exciting experience.
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card
Describe a time when you tried something for the first time.
You should say:
- What it was
- When you tried it
- Why you tried it
- And how you felt about it
Model Answer
One such occasion that springs to mind is the first time I tried scuba diving. This happened during a family vacation in Thailand roughly two years ago. I had always been fascinated by marine life and the underwater world, so I seized the opportunity to enroll in a beginner scuba diving course.
Initially, I was extremely anxious as the idea of breathing underwater felt quite unnatural. My anxiety was compounded by the fact that I am not a confident swimmer. However, the instructors were incredibly supportive and patiently explained each step.
As I descended into the water, an overwhelming sense of wonder enveloped me. I observed vibrant coral reefs, an array of colorful fish, and even a sea turtle swimming gracefully by. It was an experience I would describe as nothing short of breathtaking. By the time the session was over, I felt a profound sense of accomplishment. Not only did I conquer my fears, but I also gained a deeper appreciation for the ocean.
Follow-up Questions and Suggested Answers
Q: What did you learn from this experience?
A:
From this experience, I learned the importance of stepping out of my comfort zone. It taught me that facing your fears head-on can lead to some of the most remarkable and rewarding experiences. Additionally, it heightened my awareness of the fragility of marine ecosystems and the need for their conservation.
Q: Would you like to try more adventurous activities in the future?
A:
Absolutely. Having had such a positive and enriching experience with scuba diving, I am keen to try other adventurous activities, like skydiving or trekking in remote regions. These activities not only provide a thrill but also offer insights into nature and self-discovery.
First-time Scuba Diving Experience
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Example Question and Suggested Answer
Q: Why do people want to try new things?
A:
People are naturally curious and have an innate desire to explore the unknown. Trying new things can be invigorating and provides a sense of achievement. Additionally, new experiences can lead to personal growth, as they push individuals to overcome challenges and adapt to new situations.
Further Discussion
Q: How can trying new things benefit society?
A:
When individuals try new things, it often leads to innovation and progress. For instance, someone experimenting with a unique approach might stumble upon a groundbreaking technology or method that could benefit society at large. Trying new things also fosters open-mindedness, which can contribute to a more inclusive and understanding community.
Q: Is it always a good idea to try something new?
A:
While trying new things can be beneficial, it’s important to take calculated risks and consider potential consequences. Not every new experience will be positive, and some might even be detrimental. Therefore, weighing the pros and cons before embarking on a new venture is crucial.
Key Vocabulary and Structures for High Scores
Important Phrasal Verbs and Idioms
- Step out of your comfort zone: To do something that you don’t feel comfortable with.
- Face your fears head-on: To confront fears directly.
- Expand my horizons: To broaden one’s experiences.
Advanced Vocabulary
- Breathtaking /ˈbreθteɪkɪŋ/: Extremely exciting, beautiful, or surprising.
- Remarkable /rɪˈmɑːrkəbl/: Worthy of attention; striking.
- Exhilarating /ɪɡˈzɪləreɪtɪŋ/: Making one feel very happy, animated, or elated.
Example Sentences Using Key Vocabulary
- “Stepping out of your comfort zone often leads to the most remarkable experiences.”
- “The view from the mountaintop was breathtaking.”
- “Facing your fears head-on can be an exhilarating experience.”
Tips for Success
- Practice Speaking Regularly: Engage in conversations on a variety of topics to improve fluency and coherence.
- Expand Your Vocabulary: Learn new words and phrases, and practice using them in context.
- Mock Tests: Take practice tests to familiarize yourself with the test format and to manage your time effectively.
- Receive Feedback: Work with a teacher or a study group to get constructive feedback on your speaking skills.
For more practice and insights, you may find these links useful: Describe a time when you did something new, Describe a time when you felt excited.
By using sophisticated language, structuring your answers well, and practicing regularly, you can significantly improve your chances of scoring high in the IELTS Speaking test.