Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Describe a New Experience You Enjoyed

The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about trying new things and personal experiences. One common topic is describing a time when you tried something new and liked it. This theme allows candidates to showcase their ability to narrate events, express opinions, and use descriptive language. Let’s explore how to effectively answer such questions and maximize your score.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1, the examiner may ask some general questions related to new experiences. Here are some potential questions and a sample answer:

1. Do you enjoy trying new things?
2. What was the last new thing you tried?
3. How do you feel about trying unfamiliar foods?

Sample answer (Band 7-8):

“I’m quite adventurous when it comes to trying new things. Recently, I had my first go at rock climbing, which was both exhilarating and challenging. As for unfamiliar foods, I’m always eager to sample different cuisines. It’s a great way to explore cultures through their flavors.”

describe a food that you disliked as a child but enjoy now

Part 2: Long Turn

In this section, you’ll receive a cue card with a topic to speak about for 1-2 minutes. Here’s a sample cue card related to our theme:

Describe a time when you tried something new and liked it.

You should say:
- What the new thing was
- When and where you tried it
- Who you were with
- And explain why you liked it

Sample Answer (Band 6-7):

“I’d like to talk about the time I tried snorkeling for the first time. It was during a family vacation to Thailand last summer. We were staying at a beautiful beach resort on Phuket Island.

One sunny afternoon, my parents suggested we go on a snorkeling trip. I was a bit nervous at first because I’m not the strongest swimmer. However, our guide was very patient and helped me feel comfortable in the water.

Once I got the hang of breathing through the snorkel, it was amazing. The underwater world was like nothing I’d seen before. There were so many colorful fish and beautiful coral reefs. It felt like I was in a different world entirely.

I loved it because it was a completely new experience for me. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and showed me how much beauty there is beneath the ocean’s surface. Since then, I’ve become quite interested in marine life and hope to try scuba diving someday.”

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

“I’d like to recount my first experience with improvisational theater, which I tried about six months ago at a local arts center in my city. A friend of mine, who’s an avid theater enthusiast, persuaded me to join her for a beginner’s workshop.

Initially, I was apprehensive about participating, as I’ve always considered myself rather reserved and not particularly quick-witted. However, the workshop facilitator created such a supportive and encouraging atmosphere that my inhibitions quickly melted away.

The session involved various exercises designed to hone our spontaneity and creativity. One particularly memorable activity required us to construct a coherent story, with each participant contributing just one word at a time. It was fascinating to observe how a narrative could unfold in such an unpredictable yet engaging manner.

What I found most appealing about improv was its ability to foster a sense of presence and mindfulness. The necessity to be fully attuned to your fellow performers and to react instantaneously to their cues was both challenging and exhilarating. It served as a powerful reminder of the importance of active listening and adaptability, skills that are invaluable not just on stage, but in everyday life as well.

Moreover, the experience was incredibly liberating. There’s something profoundly freeing about embracing the possibility of ‘failure’ and reframing it as an opportunity for humor and creativity. This shift in perspective has had a positive impact on how I approach challenges in other areas of my life.

In conclusion, trying improv theater was an unexpectedly enriching experience that not only broadened my cultural horizons but also contributed to my personal growth. It’s since become a regular hobby of mine, serving as a source of joy, social connection, and continuous learning.”

Trying improv theater for the first time

Follow-up questions:

1. How did this experience change you?
2. Would you recommend this activity to others? Why or why not?

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“This experience was truly transformative. It enhanced my self-confidence and taught me the value of spontaneity in communication. I’d wholeheartedly recommend improv to others because it’s an excellent way to develop creativity, improve public speaking skills, and learn to think on your feet. These are invaluable skills in both personal and professional contexts.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this part, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:

1. Why do you think some people are reluctant to try new things?

Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“I believe there are several reasons why people might hesitate to try new experiences. Fear of the unknown is a significant factor; humans naturally tend to prefer familiar situations where they feel safe and in control. Additionally, past negative experiences can make individuals wary of stepping out of their comfort zones. Some people may also lack confidence in their ability to adapt to new situations, which can hold them back from exploring unfamiliar territory.”

2. How can trying new things benefit society as a whole?

Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Embracing new experiences can have profound benefits for society at large. Firstly, it fosters innovation and progress. When people are open to new ideas and ways of doing things, it creates an environment conducive to technological advancements and social improvements. Secondly, trying new things promotes cultural exchange and understanding. As individuals explore different cuisines, art forms, or customs, it broadens their perspectives and increases empathy towards diverse cultures. This, in turn, can lead to more harmonious multicultural societies. Moreover, a society that values novelty and experimentation is likely to be more adaptable in the face of global challenges, as its members are accustomed to thinking outside the box and embracing change.”

describe a trip you took that was not as expected

3. Do you think the education system in your country encourages people to try new things?

Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“In my opinion, our education system has made strides in encouraging students to explore new experiences, but there’s still room for improvement. Many schools now offer a wider range of extracurricular activities, allowing students to discover new interests and talents. However, the emphasis on standardized testing can sometimes limit opportunities for creative exploration. I believe incorporating more project-based learning and interdisciplinary studies could further encourage students to step out of their comfort zones and embrace new challenges.”

Key Vocabulary and Phrases

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, it’s crucial to use a range of sophisticated vocabulary and expressions. Here are some key terms related to trying new things:

1. Venture out of one’s comfort zone (idiom): To do something that you are not comfortable with
   Example: “Trying improv theater really helped me venture out of my comfort zone.”

2. Broaden one’s horizons (phrase): To expand one’s range of interests, experiences, and knowledge
   Example: “Traveling to different countries is an excellent way to broaden your horizons.”

3. Exhilarating (adjective): Very exciting and enjoyable
   Pronunciation: /ɪɡˈzɪləreɪtɪŋ/
   Example: “Skydiving for the first time was an exhilarating experience.”

4. Apprehensive (adjective): Anxious or fearful about the future
   Pronunciation: /ˌæprɪˈhensɪv/
   Example: “I was apprehensive about trying sushi, but I ended up loving it.”

5. Spontaneity (noun): The quality of being natural and uninhibited in behavior or actions
   Pronunciation: /ˌspɒntəˈneɪəti/
   Example: “Improv theater taught me to embrace spontaneity in my daily life.”

describe a foreign dish you tried

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when describing new experiences:

1. Use a variety of descriptive language to make your account vivid and engaging.
2. Practice narrating personal experiences, focusing on your thoughts and feelings.
3. Develop your ability to speak at length by expanding on your ideas and providing relevant examples.
4. Work on your fluency by regularly practicing speaking English, even if it’s just talking to yourself.
5. Pay attention to your pronunciation and intonation to ensure clear communication.
6. Incorporate idiomatic expressions and advanced vocabulary naturally into your responses.

Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Confidence, fluency, and the ability to express your ideas clearly are all crucial factors in achieving a high score.

describe a natural place such as parks or mountains

Practicing IELTS speaking skills

By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss new experiences and achieve a high score in your IELTS Speaking test. Good luck!