The topic “describe an event you are looking forward to” is a common theme in IELTS Speaking exams, particularly in Part 2. This subject allows examiners to assess candidates’ ability to express anticipation, discuss future plans, and articulate personal preferences. Given its frequency in past exams and its relevance to everyday life, it’s highly likely to appear in future tests. Let’s explore how to tackle this topic effectively across all parts of the IELTS Speaking test.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions related to events and anticipation. Here are some potential questions:
- Do you enjoy attending events?
- What types of events do you usually look forward to?
- How do you prepare for important events?
Let’s focus on question 2 and provide a sample answer:
Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
“I generally look forward to cultural festivals and music concerts. These events offer a great opportunity to immerse myself in different traditions or enjoy live performances by my favorite artists. I find that attending such events helps me broaden my horizons and create lasting memories with friends and family.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:
Describe an event 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 an upcoming music festival that’s happening next month in my city. It’s a three-day event that will take place in the central park, featuring both local and international artists. I’m planning to go with a group of close friends who share my taste in music.
The main reason I’m looking forward to this festival is the lineup of artists. Some of my favorite bands will be performing, and I can’t wait to see them live. It’s also a great chance to discover new music and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
What makes this event special is that it’s not just about the music. There will be food stalls offering cuisines from around the world, art installations, and interactive workshops. I’m particularly interested in trying out the drumming workshop they’ve advertised.
Another aspect I’m excited about is the opportunity to spend quality time with my friends. We’ve all been busy with work and studies, so this festival will be a perfect way to relax and have fun together.
Lastly, I’m looking forward to the sense of community that these events create. Being surrounded by people who share the same interests and enthusiasm is always a great feeling. I think it will be an unforgettable experience that I’ll cherish for a long time.”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’m eagerly anticipating an international film festival that’s set to take place in my city next month. This prestigious event will be held over a week at various theaters across the downtown area, showcasing a diverse array of independent and avant-garde films from around the globe. I’ll be attending with a mix of fellow cinephiles and aspiring filmmakers from my university’s film club.
The primary reason I’m looking forward to this event with such enthusiasm is the unparalleled opportunity it presents to immerse myself in world cinema. The festival’s carefully curated selection promises to offer thought-provoking narratives and groundbreaking cinematography that challenge conventional storytelling norms. I’m particularly excited about the retrospective on an acclaimed director whose work has significantly influenced my perspective on film as an art form.
What sets this event apart is its multifaceted nature. Beyond the screenings, the festival includes Q&A sessions with directors, workshops on various aspects of filmmaking, and panel discussions on current industry trends. I’m especially keen on attending a masterclass on experimental cinematography techniques, which I believe will greatly enhance my own filmmaking skills.
Moreover, this festival serves as a networking goldmine. The chance to interact with industry professionals, fellow enthusiasts, and perhaps even some of the featured directors is invaluable. I’m hopeful that these connections might open doors to future collaborations or internship opportunities in the film industry.
Lastly, I’m anticipating the intellectual stimulation and cultural enrichment that comes from being exposed to such a diverse range of global perspectives through film. It’s not just entertainment; it’s an education in human experiences and storytelling traditions from across the world. I’m confident that this event will broaden my horizons and inspire my own creative endeavors in ways I can’t yet imagine.”
Follow-up Questions
- How do you usually prepare for events you’re looking forward to?
- Do you think it’s important to have events to look forward to in life?
Sample Answer for Question 1 (Band 8-9):
“When preparing for eagerly anticipated events, I typically adopt a multifaceted approach. Firstly, I conduct thorough research about the event, familiarizing myself with the schedule, key participants, and any background information that might enhance my experience. For instance, if it’s a cultural festival, I might read up on the traditions and customs I’ll encounter.
Secondly, I focus on practical preparations. This involves meticulous planning of logistics such as transportation, accommodation if necessary, and ensuring I have all required items or documentation. I often create a detailed checklist to ensure nothing is overlooked.
Moreover, I believe in mental preparation. If the event involves learning opportunities, I might brush up on relevant topics or skills beforehand. For social events, I sometimes visualize positive interactions to boost my confidence and excitement.
Lastly, I try to cultivate an open mindset. I remind myself to be present in the moment and ready to embrace new experiences, even if they differ from my expectations. This approach helps me make the most of any event, regardless of unforeseen circumstances.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this part, the examiner might ask more abstract questions related to events and anticipation. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
- Why do you think some people prefer to plan events far in advance while others are more spontaneous?
Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
“I believe this difference in approach stems from various factors, including personality traits and life circumstances. Those who plan events far in advance often value structure and predictability. They might find comfort in having a clear roadmap for the future and enjoy the process of anticipation. This approach can also be practical, allowing for better budgeting and coordination, especially for larger events.
On the other hand, spontaneous individuals might thrive on the excitement of last-minute decisions. They may value flexibility and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. This approach can lead to more diverse experiences as they’re open to unexpected opportunities.
Life circumstances also play a role. People with busy schedules or those coordinating with multiple participants might need to plan far ahead. Conversely, those with more flexible lifestyles might have the luxury of being more spontaneous.
Ultimately, I think both approaches have their merits, and many people likely fall somewhere in between, balancing planning with spontaneity depending on the situation.”
- How do you think technology has changed the way people plan and anticipate events?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Technology has revolutionized event planning and anticipation in numerous ways. Firstly, it has significantly enhanced accessibility and convenience. With just a few taps on our smartphones, we can now browse, select, and book tickets for a wide array of events, from local community gatherings to international festivals. This ease of access has democratized event participation, allowing more people to engage with experiences that interest them.
Moreover, technology has transformed the way we coordinate and communicate about events. Social media platforms and messaging apps enable us to easily share event information, create group discussions, and coordinate plans with friends or fellow attendees. This has made organizing group attendance much more streamlined and efficient.
Another crucial aspect is how technology has amplified the anticipation and engagement surrounding events. Many events now have dedicated apps or social media presence, providing regular updates, behind-the-scenes content, and interactive features. This ongoing engagement helps build excitement and allows attendees to feel connected to the event long before it actually occurs.
Virtual and augmented reality technologies are also starting to play a role, offering immersive previews of events or venues. This can help attendees better prepare and increase their excitement.
However, it’s worth noting that this technological integration has also brought challenges. The constant connectivity can sometimes lead to information overload or heightened social pressure to attend certain events. There’s also the risk of over-relying on digital platforms, potentially diminishing the element of surprise or spontaneity that can make events memorable.
In conclusion, while technology has undoubtedly made event planning more efficient and engaging, it’s important to strike a balance, ensuring that the digital enhancements don’t overshadow the real-world experiences that make events special.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To enhance your IELTS Speaking performance, incorporate these advanced vocabulary items and phrases:
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Anticipate /ænˈtɪsɪpeɪt/ (verb): to look forward to something
Example: “I’m eagerly anticipating the upcoming music festival.” -
Exhilarating /ɪɡˈzɪləreɪtɪŋ/ (adjective): very exciting and enjoyable
Example: “The atmosphere at live concerts is always exhilarating.” -
Immerse oneself /ɪˈmɜːs wʌnˈself/ (phrasal verb): to become completely involved in something
Example: “I love to immerse myself in the local culture when attending international events.” -
Broaden one’s horizons /ˈbrɔːdn wʌnz həˈraɪznz/ (idiom): to expand one’s knowledge, experiences, or interests
Example: “Attending diverse events helps broaden my horizons.” -
Once-in-a-lifetime opportunity /wʌns ɪn ə ˈlaɪftaɪm ˌɒpəˈtjuːnəti/ (phrase): a chance that is not likely to occur again
Example: “The summit with world leaders is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for young diplomats.”
Describe a music concert you attended recently can be an excellent way to practice using these vocabulary items in context. Similarly, when you describe a recent community event you attended, you can demonstrate your ability to use advanced language to discuss social gatherings and their impact.
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing events you’re looking forward to:
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Practice varied responses: Prepare to discuss different types of events to showcase your versatility.
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Use specific examples: Provide detailed descriptions and personal anecdotes to make your responses more engaging and authentic.
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Demonstrate enthusiasm: Use appropriate intonation and body language to convey your excitement about the event.
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Employ a range of tenses: Since you’re discussing future events, practice using future tenses accurately, but also incorporate past and present tenses where relevant.
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Develop your ideas: Don’t just list facts about the event. Explain your thoughts, feelings, and reasons in depth.
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Stay on topic: While it’s good to elaborate, ensure your response remains relevant to the question asked.
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about using advanced vocabulary, but also about communicating your ideas clearly and confidently. Regular practice, possibly with a study partner or language exchange, can significantly improve your performance.
When preparing for the IELTS Speaking test, it’s helpful to describe a childhood toy you remember fondly or describe a time when you had to let go of something important. These exercises can help you practice expressing emotions and personal experiences, which are valuable skills when discussing events you’re looking forward to.
By following these strategies and incorporating advanced vocabulary and phrases, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle any question about events you’re anticipating in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember, the goal is not just to answer the question, but to demonstrate your English language proficiency through clear, detailed, and well-structured responses.