The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about personal experiences, making “describe an exciting experience you have had recently” a common topic. This theme allows examiners to assess candidates’ ability to narrate events, express emotions, and use a range of vocabulary and grammar structures. Let’s explore how to approach this topic effectively to maximize your IELTS Speaking score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions related to exciting experiences. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
- Do you enjoy trying new things?
Band 6-7 answer: “Yes, I do. I think trying new things is a great way to learn and grow. Recently, I’ve been experimenting with cooking different cuisines at home.”
Band 8-9 answer: “Absolutely! I’m a firm believer in the value of new experiences. They not only broaden our horizons but also challenge us to step out of our comfort zones. For instance, I recently took up rock climbing, which has been both exhilarating and rewarding.”
- What kind of activities do you find exciting?
Band 6-7 answer: “I find outdoor activities like hiking and camping quite exciting. There’s something thrilling about being in nature and exploring new places.”
Band 8-9 answer: “I’m particularly drawn to activities that combine physical challenge with mental stimulation. Adventure sports like white-water rafting or paragliding really get my adrenaline pumping. Additionally, I find intellectual pursuits like solving complex puzzles or learning a new language incredibly exciting in their own right.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:
Describe an exciting experience you have had recently
You should say:
- What the experience was
- When and where it happened
- Who you were with
- And explain why it was exciting for you
Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“I’d like to talk about an exciting experience I had last month when I went on a hiking trip to a nearby mountain. It was a weekend getaway with a group of friends from university. We decided to challenge ourselves by attempting a rather difficult trail that we hadn’t tried before.
The hike itself was quite demanding, with steep inclines and rocky terrain. What made it particularly exciting was the unexpected weather change halfway through our ascent. The sky darkened, and we found ourselves hiking through a light drizzle, which added an element of adventure to our journey.
Despite the challenges, reaching the summit was an incredibly rewarding experience. The view from the top was breathtaking, with lush green valleys stretching out as far as the eye could see. We all felt a great sense of accomplishment.
This experience was exciting for me because it pushed me out of my comfort zone. I’m not usually the outdoorsy type, so completing such a challenging hike gave me a real confidence boost. It also strengthened the bond between my friends and me as we supported each other throughout the journey.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d be delighted to share an exhilarating experience I had just a fortnight ago when I participated in a night-time bioluminescent kayaking expedition off the coast of [insert coastal location]. This unique adventure was a spur-of-the-moment decision I made with a couple of my more intrepid colleagues after a particularly grueling work week.
As we paddled out into the inky darkness, guided only by the faint glow of the moon and our instructor’s headlamp, there was a palpable sense of anticipation among us. The tranquility of the night was occasionally punctuated by the gentle lapping of waves against our kayaks and the distant calls of nocturnal birds.
The true magic unfolded as we ventured further from the shore. With each stroke of our paddles, the water around us erupted into a mesmerizing display of blue-green light. It was as if we were gliding through a sea of stars. This bioluminescent phenomenon, caused by microscopic marine organisms, transformed the ordinary act of kayaking into an otherworldly experience.
What made this experience particularly thrilling was the combination of physical activity, scientific wonder, and sheer natural beauty. The ethereal glow of the water coupled with the vast expanse of the starry sky above created a surreal environment that felt almost dreamlike. It was a powerful reminder of the hidden marvels of our natural world and how stepping out of our routine can lead to truly awe-inspiring moments.
Moreover, sharing this experience with colleagues added an unexpected dimension to our professional relationships. Witnessing each other’s childlike wonder and excitement in such an unusual setting fostered a sense of camaraderie that has since translated into improved teamwork back at the office.
In essence, this nocturnal kayaking adventure was exciting not just for its novelty and beauty, but also for the way it broadened my perspective and strengthened personal connections. It served as a vivid reminder of the importance of seeking out new experiences and the profound impact they can have on our outlook and relationships.”
Bioluminescent kayaking experience at night
Follow-up questions:
- How do you usually plan for exciting experiences?
Band 6-7 answer: “I usually start by researching online for interesting activities in my area. I also ask friends for recommendations and try to save some money for these experiences.”
Band 8-9 answer: “My approach to planning exciting experiences is multifaceted. I begin by cultivating a mindset of curiosity and openness to new possibilities. This involves staying informed about local events, following travel blogs, and engaging with diverse communities. I also believe in the power of spontaneity, so I maintain a ‘bucket list’ of experiences I’d like to try, which allows me to seize opportunities as they arise. Additionally, I set aside a portion of my budget specifically for novel experiences, ensuring that financial constraints don’t hinder my pursuit of excitement.”
- Do you think it’s important to have exciting experiences regularly?
Band 6-7 answer: “Yes, I believe it’s important. Exciting experiences can make life more interesting and help us grow as individuals. They give us something to look forward to and create good memories.”
Band 8-9 answer: “Absolutely, I consider regular exciting experiences to be crucial for personal growth and overall well-being. These experiences serve multiple purposes: they break the monotony of daily routines, stimulate our minds, and often push us beyond our perceived limitations. Moreover, they play a vital role in fostering resilience and adaptability, qualities that are increasingly valuable in our rapidly changing world. Regular exposure to novel and exciting situations also enhances our creativity and problem-solving skills, as it encourages us to view things from different perspectives. Ultimately, these experiences contribute to a richer, more fulfilling life narrative.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: Let’s consider the broader impact of exciting experiences. How do you think seeking out exciting experiences affects personal growth?
Band 6-7 answer: “I believe seeking exciting experiences can greatly contribute to personal growth. It helps people become more confident and open-minded. When we try new things, we learn about ourselves and our capabilities. This can lead to improved self-esteem and a willingness to take on more challenges in life.”
Band 8-9 answer: “The pursuit of exciting experiences plays a pivotal role in personal growth and development. Firstly, it catalyzes self-discovery, as individuals often uncover hidden talents or interests when pushed out of their comfort zones. This process of self-revelation can be transformative, leading to increased self-awareness and a more nuanced understanding of one’s strengths and limitations.
Moreover, exciting experiences often involve an element of risk or uncertainty, which, when navigated successfully, bolsters resilience and problem-solving skills. This enhanced ability to adapt and overcome challenges can translate into various aspects of life, from career advancement to personal relationships.
Additionally, exposure to diverse experiences broadens one’s perspective, fostering empathy and cultural sensitivity. This expanded worldview is invaluable in our increasingly interconnected global society, enabling more effective communication and collaboration across cultural boundaries.
Lastly, the neuroplasticity of our brains thrives on novelty. Engaging in exciting experiences stimulates cognitive function, potentially enhancing creativity, memory, and overall mental acuity. This neurological benefit underscores the importance of continually seeking new and stimulating experiences throughout one’s life.”
Examiner: In what ways do you think society benefits when individuals pursue exciting experiences?
Band 6-7 answer: “I think society can benefit in several ways when people seek exciting experiences. It can lead to more creativity and innovation as people bring new ideas from their experiences. It can also promote cultural exchange and understanding if people travel or try activities from different cultures. This can make society more open-minded and diverse.”
Band 8-9 answer: “The societal benefits of individuals pursuing exciting experiences are multifaceted and far-reaching. Primarily, it fosters a culture of innovation and progress. When people step outside their comfort zones and engage with novel experiences, they often return with fresh perspectives and ideas. This influx of new thoughts and approaches can catalyze advancements in various fields, from technology and science to arts and culture.
Furthermore, the pursuit of exciting experiences often leads to increased cross-cultural interactions. As individuals explore different cultures and ways of life, it promotes greater empathy, tolerance, and global understanding. This, in turn, can contribute to more harmonious international relations and a more interconnected global community.
From an economic standpoint, the quest for exciting experiences drives various industries, particularly tourism and entertainment. This not only stimulates economic growth but also encourages the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage and natural wonders.
Moreover, a society composed of individuals who regularly seek exciting experiences tends to be more adaptable and resilient in the face of change. This collective adaptability is crucial in navigating the rapid technological and social changes characteristic of our modern era.
Lastly, the shared narratives of exciting experiences contribute to the rich tapestry of social discourse. They inspire others, spark conversations, and can even mobilize communities towards positive change, thereby enriching the collective social experience and fostering a more dynamic, engaged society.”
Societal benefits of pursuing exciting experiences
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Exhilarating /ɪɡˈzɪləreɪtɪŋ/ (adjective): Making one feel very happy, animated, or elated.
Example: “The exhilarating rush of skydiving is unparalleled.”Spontaneous /spɒnˈteɪniəs/ (adjective): Done or occurring as a result of a sudden impulse without premeditation.
Example: “Our spontaneous road trip turned out to be the highlight of the summer.”Adrenaline rush /əˈdrenəlɪn rʌʃ/ (noun phrase): A sudden burst of energy from an increase in adrenaline.
Example: “Bungee jumping gave me an incredible adrenaline rush.”Broaden one’s horizons (idiom): To expand or widen the range of one’s knowledge, experiences, or interests.
Example: “Traveling to different countries has really broadened my horizons.”Step out of one’s comfort zone (idiom): To do something that you are not comfortable doing.
Example: “Learning to public speak required me to step out of my comfort zone.”Once-in-a-lifetime (adjective): Unlikely to happen again; very special.
Example: “Witnessing the Northern Lights was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”Memorable /ˈmem(ə)rəb(ə)l/ (adjective): Worth remembering or easily remembered, especially because of being special or unusual.
Example: “The scenic helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon was an unforgettable and memorable experience.”
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when describing exciting experiences:
- Use a variety of descriptive adjectives to bring your experience to life.
- Incorporate idiomatic expressions naturally to demonstrate language fluency.
- Structure your response logically, covering all aspects mentioned in the question.
- Include specific details to make your account more vivid and engaging.
- Practice narrating experiences beforehand to improve fluency and confidence.
- Show enthusiasm through your tone and facial expressions when describing exciting events.
Remember, the key to a high score is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Aim for fluency, coherence, and a rich vocabulary while maintaining grammatical accuracy.
Learn more about describing new experiences in IELTS Speaking to further enhance your skills and confidence for the test.