The IELTS Speaking test often includes topics that require candidates to describe personal experiences. One such topic that frequently appears is “describe an event that was unexpectedly enjoyable.” This theme allows examiners to assess a candidate’s ability to narrate, express emotions, and use descriptive language effectively. Let’s explore how to approach this topic and excel in your IELTS Speaking test.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In the first part of the speaking test, the examiner may ask general questions related to enjoyable experiences. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
- Do you often have unexpected enjoyable experiences?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Yes, I’d say I frequently encounter unexpected pleasures in life. I try to maintain an open mind and embrace spontaneity, which often leads to delightful surprises. Just last week, I stumbled upon a street festival while running errands, and it turned into a wonderfully enjoyable afternoon.”
- What types of events do you usually find enjoyable?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I derive great pleasure from a diverse range of events. Social gatherings with close friends are always a source of joy, as are cultural experiences like art exhibitions or live performances. I’m also particularly fond of outdoor activities, especially when they involve exploring new landscapes or engaging in adventurous pursuits. The common thread among these events is the opportunity to create lasting memories and broaden my horizons.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:
Describe an event that was unexpectedly enjoyable
You should say:
- What the event was
- When and where it happened
- Who you were with
- And explain why it was unexpectedly enjoyable
Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“I’d like to talk about a work conference that turned out to be surprisingly enjoyable. It happened last summer in a nearby city. I went there with a few colleagues from my department.
Initially, I wasn’t looking forward to it because I thought it would be boring and just about work. But when we arrived, I was amazed by the venue – it was a beautiful old building with modern facilities.
The conference itself was really interesting. The speakers were engaging and used lots of real-life examples. We also had interactive sessions where we could share our own experiences. This made the whole event much more fun than I expected.
What made it unexpectedly enjoyable was the social aspect. During breaks, I got to know my colleagues better. We had lunch together and even went out for dinner after the conference. I realized we had a lot in common outside of work.
The event changed my perspective on work conferences. Now I see them as opportunities to learn new things and build relationships with coworkers. It was a pleasant surprise that something I thought would be dull turned out to be so enjoyable and valuable.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to recount an experience that caught me completely off guard with its unexpected enjoyment – a work conference I attended last summer in a neighboring metropolis. I embarked on this journey with a handful of colleagues from my department, initially harboring a sense of reluctance and anticipation of tedium.
Upon arrival, I was immediately struck by the venue’s grandeur – an architectural marvel that seamlessly blended historical charm with cutting-edge amenities. This first impression set the tone for what would become a thoroughly engaging experience.
The conference itself proved to be an intellectual feast. The speakers were not merely informative but captivating, peppering their presentations with compelling anecdotes and real-world applications. The interactive sessions were particularly illuminating, providing a platform for robust discussions and the exchange of diverse perspectives.
What truly elevated this event from merely informative to unexpectedly enjoyable was the social dimension. The intervals between sessions became golden opportunities to forge deeper connections with my colleagues. Our shared meals and post-conference excursions revealed common interests and fostered a sense of camaraderie that extended far beyond our professional roles.
This experience fundamentally altered my perception of work-related gatherings. I now view them through a lens of opportunity – chances to expand my knowledge base, cultivate meaningful relationships, and gain fresh insights into my field. The conference served as a poignant reminder that preconceptions can often be misleading, and that embracing experiences with an open mind can lead to delightful discoveries and personal growth.”
Illustration of an unexpectedly enjoyable work conference
Follow-up questions:
- How do unexpected events impact our lives?
- Do you think it’s important to be open to new experiences?
Sample answer for question 1 (Band 8-9):
“Unexpected events can have a profound impact on our lives in various ways. Firstly, they challenge our preconceptions and force us to reevaluate our assumptions about the world around us. This process of reassessment can lead to personal growth and expanded perspectives.
Moreover, unexpected events often serve as catalysts for change. They can jolt us out of our comfort zones, encouraging us to explore new possibilities and embrace opportunities we might otherwise overlook. This can result in serendipitous discoveries and unforeseen positive outcomes in both our personal and professional lives.
Additionally, these events cultivate resilience and adaptability. By learning to navigate unforeseen circumstances, we develop crucial skills that enhance our ability to thrive in an ever-changing world. Ultimately, unexpected events, particularly those that turn out to be enjoyable, remind us of the importance of maintaining an open mind and approaching life with a sense of curiosity and wonder.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: Let’s discuss more about unexpected enjoyable experiences. Do you think modern technology has made it harder to have unexpected enjoyable experiences?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“That’s an interesting question. I believe modern technology has both positive and negative impacts on our ability to have unexpected enjoyable experiences.
On one hand, technology has expanded our access to information and opportunities. We can easily discover new events, places, or activities through social media or recommendation apps. This increased awareness can lead to more chances for unexpected enjoyment.
However, there’s also a downside. The constant connectivity and information overload can make us overly reliant on planning and less open to spontaneity. We might be so focused on our devices that we miss out on real-world experiences happening around us.
Additionally, the curated nature of social media can create unrealistic expectations, making it harder for real experiences to surprise and delight us. We might also be less likely to engage with strangers or explore unfamiliar places, which are often sources of unexpected enjoyment.
Overall, I think technology can be a double-edged sword. It has the potential to both facilitate and hinder unexpected enjoyable experiences, depending on how we use it. The key is to strike a balance and remain open to the unexpected, even in our tech-driven world.”
Illustration of technology's impact on unexpected experiences
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“This is a nuanced issue that warrants careful consideration. Modern technology has undoubtedly transformed our relationship with unexpected experiences, yielding both positive and negative consequences.
On the positive side, technology has dramatically expanded our horizons and democratized access to information and opportunities. Social media platforms and recommendation algorithms can expose us to diverse events, cultures, and activities that we might otherwise never encounter. This broadened awareness can cultivate a sense of curiosity and openness to new experiences, potentially increasing the likelihood of stumbling upon unexpected joys.
Moreover, technology has facilitated serendipitous connections with like-minded individuals across geographical boundaries. Online communities and interest groups can lead to chance encounters and unexpected collaborations that enrich our lives in unforeseen ways.
However, the pervasive nature of technology also presents significant challenges. The constant barrage of information and the pressure to document and share experiences can lead to a state of perpetual distraction. This mindset can diminish our ability to be fully present in the moment and appreciate the subtle joys of unexpected experiences as they unfold.
Furthermore, the algorithmic curation of our digital lives can create echo chambers and filter bubbles, potentially limiting our exposure to truly novel experiences. The comfort of the familiar, reinforced by personalized recommendations, may discourage us from venturing into uncharted territories where unexpected pleasures often lie.
Another consideration is the impact on our attention spans and tolerance for uncertainty. The instant gratification provided by technology may make us less patient with experiences that require time to unfold or appreciate fully. This could lead us to prematurely dismiss potentially enjoyable experiences that don’t immediately captivate us.
In conclusion, while technology has undeniably expanded our potential for unexpected enjoyment in many ways, it has also introduced new challenges to our ability to recognize and appreciate these experiences. The key lies in cultivating a mindful approach to technology use, consciously creating space for spontaneity and serendipity in our lives, and remaining open to the possibility of finding joy in unexpected places, both online and offline.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Serendipitous /ˌser.ənˈdɪp.ɪ.təs/ (adjective): Occurring or discovered by chance in a happy or beneficial way.
Example: “Our serendipitous encounter at the conference led to a fruitful business partnership.”To catch someone off guard (idiom): To surprise someone when they are not prepared.
Example: “The unexpectedly enjoyable nature of the event caught me completely off guard.”To exceed expectations (phrase): To be better or greater than anticipated.
Example: “The conference exceeded my expectations in terms of both content and networking opportunities.”To broaden one’s horizons (idiom): To expand one’s range of interests, experiences, or knowledge.
Example: “Attending the conference broadened my horizons by exposing me to new ideas and perspectives.”To embrace spontaneity (phrase): To willingly accept or welcome unplanned events or actions.
Example: “Learning to embrace spontaneity has led to many unexpectedly enjoyable experiences in my life.”
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing unexpected enjoyable experiences:
Practice narrative techniques: Develop your ability to tell a coherent story with a clear beginning, middle, and end.
Expand your vocabulary: Focus on descriptive language and emotive words to bring your experiences to life.
Use a variety of tenses: Incorporate past, present, and future tenses appropriately to add depth to your narrative.
Employ idiomatic expressions: Naturally integrate idiomatic language to demonstrate fluency and cultural understanding.
Provide specific details: Use concrete examples and sensory descriptions to make your account more vivid and engaging.
Show reflection: Demonstrate critical thinking by explaining why the experience was unexpected and how it impacted you.
Maintain fluency: Practice speaking at length without long pauses or hesitations.
Embrace the unexpected: In the test, be prepared to think on your feet and adapt to unexpected questions or topics.
By following these guidelines and consistently practicing, you can describe a time when you tried something new and liked it with confidence and eloquence, improving your chances of achieving a high band score in the IELTS Speaking test.