The topic “describe a time you spent with a child” is a common theme in IELTS Speaking tests, particularly in Part 2. This subject allows examiners to assess candidates’ ability to recount personal experiences, use descriptive language, and express emotions. Given its relevance to everyday life, this topic has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to continue being a popular choice in future tests.
Describe a memory from childhood is a related topic that candidates may encounter in IELTS Speaking. Being prepared to discuss experiences with children can help you tackle various similar questions with confidence.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about children and your experiences with them. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:
- Do you often spend time with children?
- What activities do you enjoy doing with children?
- How do you think spending time with children can benefit adults?
Let’s focus on question 3:
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“I believe spending time with children can be incredibly rewarding for adults in several ways. Firstly, it allows us to reconnect with our own inner child and rediscover the joy of simple pleasures. Additionally, children’s boundless curiosity can inspire adults to view the world from a fresh perspective, fostering creativity and innovation in our own lives. Moreover, interacting with children can help adults develop patience and empathy, which are valuable skills in both personal and professional relationships.”
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:
Describe a time you spent with a child
You should say:
- Who the child was
- What you did together
- Where you were
- And explain how you felt about the experience
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to share an experience I had with my 7-year-old nephew, Tom, during a family vacation last summer. We were staying at a picturesque beach resort on the coast of California, and I decided to take Tom on a little adventure one sunny afternoon.
We set out to explore the pristine shoreline, armed with a small bucket and a child-sized shovel. Our mission was to build the most magnificent sandcastle the beach had ever seen. As we worked together, I was utterly amazed by Tom’s boundless imagination. He suggested we add a moat filled with seawater and decorate our creation with colorful seashells we found along the water’s edge.
Throughout our castle-building endeavor, I found myself completely immersed in the present moment, forgetting about my usual adult worries. Tom’s infectious laughter and genuine excitement over every little discovery were truly heartwarming. We spent hours meticulously crafting our sandy masterpiece, oblivious to the passage of time.
The experience left me feeling rejuvenated and inspired. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of play and the beauty of seeing the world through a child’s eyes. I realized that spending quality time with children can be an incredibly enriching experience, allowing us to rediscover our sense of wonder and appreciate the simple joys in life.
This memorable afternoon with Tom reinforced my belief in the value of nurturing intergenerational bonds. It also made me more mindful of the need to balance work and play in my own life, inspired by the effortless way children embrace fun and creativity.”
Follow-up questions:
- How did this experience change your perspective on spending time with children?
- What challenges did you face during this activity, and how did you overcome them?
Sample answer for question 1 (Band 8-9):
“This experience profoundly shifted my perspective on spending time with children. It made me realize that these interactions are not just about entertaining or supervising kids, but rather mutual learning opportunities. I found myself gaining fresh insights into creativity and problem-solving from Tom’s approach to our sandcastle project. His unbridled enthusiasm reminded me of the importance of maintaining a sense of wonder in life, regardless of age. Moreover, the experience highlighted the therapeutic value of such interactions, as I felt remarkably stress-free and rejuvenated after our time together. It reinforced my belief in the need for adults to make conscious efforts to engage meaningfully with children, not just for the children’s benefit, but for our own personal growth and well-being as well.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In Part 3, the examiner might ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:
- How has the way children spend their free time changed in recent years?
- What role do you think technology should play in a child’s upbringing?
- How can society ensure that children from all backgrounds have access to quality leisure activities?
Let’s focus on question 2:
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“The role of technology in a child’s upbringing is a complex and nuanced issue that requires careful consideration. On one hand, technology offers unprecedented access to information and educational resources that can significantly enhance a child’s learning experience. Interactive educational apps, for instance, can make subjects like mathematics or foreign languages more engaging and accessible.
However, it’s crucial to strike a balance between technological engagement and other essential aspects of childhood development. Excessive screen time can potentially lead to problems such as reduced physical activity, impaired social skills, or even addiction. Therefore, I believe technology should play a supportive rather than dominant role in a child’s upbringing.
Parents and educators should implement strategies to ensure technology is used constructively and in moderation. This might involve setting clear guidelines for device usage, prioritizing face-to-face interactions, and encouraging a mix of tech-based and traditional activities. For example, using educational apps could be balanced with outdoor play, reading physical books, and engaging in creative pursuits like art or music.
Moreover, adults should actively participate in children’s technology use, guiding them towards age-appropriate content and teaching them about online safety and digital citizenship. This approach can help children develop a healthy relationship with technology from an early age, preparing them for a future where digital literacy will be increasingly important.
In essence, technology should be viewed as a tool to augment and diversify a child’s learning and play experiences, rather than a substitute for real-world interactions and explorations. By thoughtfully integrating technology into a well-rounded upbringing, we can help children reap its benefits while mitigating potential drawbacks.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
-
Boundless curiosity /ˈbaʊndləs ˌkjʊəriˈɒsəti/ (adj. + n.): Unlimited eagerness to learn or know about something.
Example: “Children’s boundless curiosity often leads them to ask countless questions.” -
Infectious laughter /ɪnˈfekʃəs ˈlɑːftə(r)/ (adj. + n.): Laughter that causes others to laugh as well.
Example: “Her infectious laughter filled the room, lifting everyone’s spirits.” -
Picturesque /ˌpɪktʃəˈresk/ (adj.): Visually attractive, especially in a quaint or charming way.
Example: “We stayed in a picturesque village nestled in the mountains.” -
Meticulously /məˈtɪkjələsli/ (adv.): In a way that shows great attention to detail; very carefully and precisely.
Example: “He meticulously planned every aspect of the project.” -
Rejuvenated /rɪˈdʒuːvəneɪtɪd/ (adj.): Having been given new energy or vigor.
Example: “After the vacation, I felt completely rejuvenated and ready to face new challenges.”
Examiner’s Advice: To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, practice using a wide range of vocabulary and complex grammatical structures. Focus on fluency and coherence by organizing your thoughts logically and using appropriate linking words. Remember to provide specific examples to support your points and express your opinions clearly. Regular practice with a variety of topics will help you feel more confident and perform better on test day.
Describe a memorable beach day is another topic that could help you prepare for questions about enjoyable experiences, which can be related to spending time with children or other memorable occasions.