The topic “describe an event that you are looking forward to” is a popular one in IELTS Speaking tests, particularly in Part 2. It allows candidates to showcase their ability to express anticipation, describe future plans, and use a range of vocabulary related to events and emotions. This topic has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests due to its versatility and relatability.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about events and anticipation. Here’s an example question with a suggested answer:
Question: Do you often look forward to special events?
Answer (Band 7-8):
Absolutely! I’m the kind of person who thrives on anticipation. I find that having special events to look forward to adds a sense of excitement to my daily life. Whether it’s a friend’s birthday party, a concert, or even a simple weekend getaway, I always enjoy the build-up and planning process almost as much as the event itself.
describe a book you want to read in the future
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card
Describe an event that you are looking forward to
You should say:
- What the event is
- When and where it will happen
- Who will be there with you
- And explain why you are looking forward to this event
Sample Answer (Band 6-7)
I’m really excited about my cousin’s wedding that’s coming up next month. It’s going to be a big family gathering on the 15th of July at a beautiful beach resort in Bali, Indonesia. Most of my extended family will be there, including relatives I haven’t seen in years.
I’m looking forward to this event for several reasons. Firstly, it’s a chance to celebrate my cousin’s love and see her start a new chapter in her life. Secondly, I’m excited about the location. Bali is known for its stunning beaches and rich culture, so I’m eager to explore the area. Lastly, it’s a rare opportunity for our whole family to come together, catch up, and create new memories.
The wedding itself will be a three-day affair, with various ceremonies and parties planned. I’m particularly looking forward to the traditional Balinese dance performance that’s scheduled for the second evening. It’s something I’ve always wanted to see in person.
Overall, this event combines so many things I enjoy – family, travel, cultural experiences, and celebration. That’s why I’m counting down the days and can’t wait for it to arrive.
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
I’m absolutely thrilled about an upcoming event that’s been circled on my calendar for months now – my cousin’s destination wedding in Bali, Indonesia. This joyous occasion is set to take place on the 15th of July at a picturesque beach resort that I’ve heard is nothing short of paradise.
The event promises to be a grand family reunion, with relatives flying in from all corners of the globe. It’s a rare opportunity to reconnect with family members I haven’t seen in years, some of whom I’ve only interacted with through social media until now.
My anticipation for this event stems from multiple factors. Primarily, it’s the chance to witness my beloved cousin embark on a new chapter of her life, surrounded by those who care for her most. Secondly, the allure of Bali itself is undeniable. I’m eagerly looking forward to immersing myself in the island’s rich cultural tapestry and basking in its natural beauty.
The wedding is designed as a three-day extravaganza, each day promising unique experiences. I’m particularly excited about the traditional Balinese dance performance scheduled for the second evening. The prospect of witnessing this authentic cultural spectacle in its place of origin is truly exhilarating.
Moreover, this event represents a perfect amalgamation of elements I cherish – family bonding, travel, cultural exploration, and celebration. The thought of creating lasting memories with my loved ones in such a breathtaking setting fills me with immense joy and anticipation.
In essence, this wedding is not just a ceremony, but a once-in-a-lifetime experience that I’m eagerly counting down the days to. It’s an event that promises to be etched in my memory for years to come, blending the joy of family, the thrill of travel, and the magic of a new beginning.
IELTS Speaking: Describing a destination wedding in Bali
Follow-up Questions
- How do you usually prepare for important events?
Answer (Band 7-8):
When it comes to important events, I’m quite meticulous in my preparation. I usually start by making a detailed checklist of everything I need to do or bring. This might include choosing appropriate attire, arranging transportation, or even preparing a speech if required. I also try to anticipate potential issues and plan accordingly. For instance, if it’s an outdoor event, I’ll check the weather forecast and prepare for different scenarios.
Answer (Band 8-9):
My approach to preparing for significant events is multifaceted and thorough. I begin by crafting a comprehensive plan, breaking down tasks into manageable steps and setting deadlines for each. This might involve researching the event’s context, curating the perfect outfit, or honing any skills that might be relevant. I’m a firm believer in visualization techniques, so I often spend time mentally rehearsing how I want the event to unfold. Additionally, I place great emphasis on emotional and mental preparation, ensuring I’m in the right headspace to fully engage with and appreciate the experience.
- Do you think it’s important to have events to look forward to?
Answer (Band 7-8):
Absolutely! Having events to look forward to is crucial for maintaining a positive outlook on life. These anticipated occasions serve as milestones that break up the monotony of daily routines and give us something to be excited about. They can be a source of motivation, helping us push through challenging times by providing a light at the end of the tunnel. Moreover, the anticipation itself can be enjoyable, often boosting our mood and energy levels.
Answer (Band 8-9):
I firmly believe that having future events to anticipate is integral to our psychological well-being. These prospective occasions serve as beacons of positivity in our lives, providing a sense of purpose and direction. They act as emotional anchors, helping us navigate through periods of stress or tedium by offering a glimpse of joy on the horizon. The anticipation of such events can stimulate the release of dopamine in our brains, enhancing our overall sense of happiness and fulfillment. Furthermore, looking forward to events can foster a growth mindset, encouraging us to set goals and envision a brighter future. In essence, these anticipated experiences are not just moments of joy, but vital components in constructing a meaningful and satisfying life narrative.
describe a natural wonder you want to see
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: Let’s talk more about events and celebrations. Do you think the way people celebrate events has changed over the years?
Answer (Band 6-7):
Yes, I think celebrations have definitely changed over time. Nowadays, people tend to use social media a lot to share their events and even plan them. There’s also a trend towards more personalized celebrations, where people try to make their events unique and special to them. Another change is that many celebrations have become more environmentally conscious, with people trying to reduce waste and use eco-friendly decorations.
Answer (Band 8-9):
Undoubtedly, the landscape of celebrations has undergone a significant transformation in recent years. We’ve witnessed a paradigm shift from traditional, often formulaic celebrations to more personalized and experiential events. The advent of social media has revolutionized how we plan, share, and commemorate these occasions, creating a new dimension of virtual participation and global connectivity.
There’s been a noticeable trend towards mindful celebration, with an increasing emphasis on sustainability and social responsibility. Many event organizers are now prioritizing eco-friendly practices, from using biodegradable decorations to offering plant-based menu options.
Furthermore, we’re seeing a blending of cultural traditions as our world becomes more interconnected. This cross-pollination of ideas has led to richly diverse and innovative celebrations that reflect our increasingly globalized society.
Lastly, there’s been a shift towards valuing experiences over material excess. Many people now prefer to invest in creating memorable moments rather than lavish displays of wealth, reflecting a broader societal move towards prioritizing personal growth and shared experiences.
Examiner: How do you think technology will change the way we celebrate events in the future?
Answer (Band 6-7):
I believe technology will have a big impact on future celebrations. We might see more virtual reality events, where people can “attend” celebrations from anywhere in the world. Artificial intelligence could be used to help plan events more efficiently. Also, technology might make events more interactive, with things like holographic performers or augmented reality decorations. However, I think there will always be a desire for real, in-person connections, so technology will probably enhance rather than replace traditional celebrations.
Answer (Band 8-9):
The integration of technology into our celebratory practices is likely to be profound and multifaceted. We’re already witnessing the emergence of hybrid events that seamlessly blend physical and virtual elements, and this trend is set to accelerate.
Artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms will likely revolutionize event planning, offering hyper-personalized experiences tailored to individual preferences. We may see AI-powered virtual event planners that can coordinate complex logistics with unprecedented efficiency.
Augmented and virtual reality technologies have the potential to transcend geographical boundaries, enabling people to ‘attend’ events from anywhere in the world. This could lead to truly global celebrations, where participants from different continents can interact in shared virtual spaces.
The Internet of Things (IoT) could transform venue management, with smart systems automatically adjusting lighting, temperature, and even scent to enhance the ambiance and respond to guests’ needs in real-time.
Blockchain technology might be employed to create secure, verifiable digital invitations and tickets, potentially revolutionizing how we manage event access and memorabilia.
However, as we embrace these technological advancements, there’s likely to be a counterbalancing movement emphasizing authentic, tactile experiences. The challenge will be in striking a balance, using technology to enhance rather than replace the fundamental human connection that lies at the heart of any celebration.
describe a holiday experience that didn’t go as planned
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Anticipation /ænˌtɪsɪˈpeɪʃn/ (noun): A feeling of excitement about something that is going to happen.
Example: The anticipation of the upcoming concert made it hard for me to focus on anything else.Milestone /ˈmaɪlstəʊn/ (noun): An important event in the development or history of something or in someone’s life.
Example: Graduating from university was a significant milestone in my academic journey.Extravaganza /ɪkˌstrævəˈɡænzə/ (noun): A very elaborate and spectacular entertainment or event.
Example: The New Year’s Eve party was a true extravaganza, with fireworks, live music, and gourmet food.Amalgamation /əˌmælɡəˈmeɪʃn/ (noun): The action, process, or result of combining or uniting.
Example: The festival was an amalgamation of different cultural traditions from around the world.Picturesque /ˌpɪktʃəˈresk/ (adjective): Visually attractive, especially in a quaint or charming way.
Example: The wedding venue was a picturesque château surrounded by vineyards.Immerse /ɪˈmɜːs/ (verb): To involve oneself deeply in a particular activity or interest.
Example: I plan to immerse myself in the local culture during my trip to Japan.Etched in memory (idiom): Remembered clearly and permanently.
Example: The moment I first saw the Eiffel Tower is etched in my memory.
describe a recent birthday celebration you enjoyed
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing events you’re looking forward to, consider the following tips:
Use a variety of vocabulary: Incorporate advanced words and phrases related to events, emotions, and anticipation. This demonstrates your language proficiency.
Provide detailed responses: Don’t just list facts; elaborate on your answers with reasons, examples, and personal experiences.
Use a range of grammatical structures: Mix simple and complex sentences. Use conditional tenses when talking about future events.
Show enthusiasm: Your tone and body language should reflect your excitement about the event you’re describing.
Practice coherence and cohesion: Ensure your ideas flow logically. Use linking words and phrases to connect your thoughts.
Be prepared for follow-up questions: Think about different aspects of events and celebrations so you can respond confidently to any related questions.
Develop your ideas: Don’t just scratch the surface. Dive deep into your thoughts and feelings about the event.
Stay on topic: While it’s good to elaborate, make sure your responses are relevant to the question asked.
Remember, regular practice is key to improving your speaking skills. Try to incorporate these elements into your daily English conversations to make them feel more natural during the test.