When discussing times we helped others in IELTS Speaking, it’s crucial to provide detailed, authentic responses that showcase both language ability and personal experience. Similar to describe a time when you helped someone solve a problem, this topic frequently appears in IELTS Speaking tests.
IELTS Speaking examiner interviewing candidate about helping others
Part 1: Introduction Questions
Common questions include:
- Do you often help others?
- What kind of help do you usually provide?
- How do you feel when helping someone?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I genuinely believe in lending a helping hand whenever possible. I frequently assist my colleagues with technical issues and mentor junior students. It gives me immense satisfaction knowing I’ve made a positive impact on someone’s life.”
Part 2: 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 them
- And explain how you felt about helping them
Student explaining complex subject to classmate in library
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to share an experience about describe a person who helped you become more resilient. Last semester, I helped my classmate Sarah who was struggling with advanced statistics.
She was on the verge of failing the course and feeling extremely overwhelmed. I took the initiative to create a study schedule and broke down complex concepts into manageable chunks. We met three times a week for two months, during which I explained everything systematically and provided practical examples.
The most rewarding aspect was seeing her confidence grow. She not only passed the final exam but scored among the top students. This experience was particularly meaningful because, like describe a time when you gave up something important to help someone, I dedicated significant time despite my own busy schedule.
I felt incredibly fulfilled knowing that my support had made such a substantial difference in her academic journey. It reinforced my belief that knowledge sharing can transform lives.”
Follow-up Questions
- What skills are important when helping others?
- How has helping others changed you as a person?
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Q: Do you think people are less willing to help others nowadays?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“While social media might suggest increasing self-centeredness, I believe people’s willingness to help has simply evolved. Modern society has developed more structured ways of assistance through volunteering platforms and community organizations. Like describe a person you think is wise, many individuals now channel their altruistic tendencies through organized channels rather than spontaneous acts.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
- Take the initiative /teɪk ði ɪˈnɪʃətɪv/ (phrase) – to be the first to act
- Make a substantial difference /meɪk ə səbˈstænʃəl ˈdɪfrəns/ (phrase) – create significant impact
- Channel (something) /ˈtʃænl/ (verb) – to direct towards a particular purpose
- Lending a helping hand /ˈlendɪŋ ə ˈhelpɪŋ hænd/ (idiom) – offering assistance
Professional explaining concept to colleague in office
Examiner’s Tips
- Use specific examples and details
- Show progression in your story
- Include emotional responses
- Demonstrate range of vocabulary
- Maintain coherent structure
Remember to practice these responses while maintaining natural delivery and authentic personal experiences.
