In IELTS Speaking examinations, candidates are often asked to describe everyday objects. This topic is consistently popular and likely to appear in future tests. Being able to articulate about common items demonstrates your ability to use English in practical contexts. Let’s explore how to excel in this task, focusing on the prompt “Describe An Item You Use Daily.”
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
Examiners typically begin with general questions about your daily routine. Here’s a sample question with a suggested response:
Examiner: “What item do you use every day?”
Candidate (Band 8-9 response): “Well, one item I absolutely can’t do without is my smartphone. It’s not just a communication device for me; it’s more like a personal assistant that helps me manage various aspects of my daily life, from scheduling appointments to staying connected with friends and family.”
describe a time when you saved money
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card
Describe an item you use daily
You should say:
- What the item is
- How long you have had it
- What you use it for
- And explain why this item is important to you
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
“I’d like to talk about my laptop, which is an indispensable part of my daily routine. I’ve had this particular model for about three years now, and it’s been my faithful companion through thick and thin.
As a freelance writer and digital marketer, my laptop is essentially my mobile office. I use it for a myriad of tasks, from writing articles and creating content to managing my clients’ social media accounts and conducting research. It’s also my primary tool for video conferencing with clients and colleagues around the globe.
The importance of this item to me cannot be overstated. It’s not just a tool; it’s the backbone of my professional life. Without it, I’d be utterly lost in terms of productivity and connectivity. It allows me to work from virtually anywhere, giving me the flexibility and freedom that I value so much in my career.
Moreover, my laptop serves as my entertainment hub during my downtime. Whether I’m streaming my favorite shows, indulging in online gaming, or simply browsing the internet, it’s my go-to device for relaxation and leisure.
In essence, this laptop embodies the convergence of my work and personal life. It’s not just a piece of technology; it’s a gateway to endless possibilities and opportunities. The fact that I can carry my entire professional world in a slim, portable device never ceases to amaze me.”
describe a challenging work or school project
Follow-up Questions
Examiner: “Do you think people rely too much on technology these days?”
Candidate (Band 8-9 response): “That’s a thought-provoking question. While technology has undoubtedly revolutionized our lives in many positive ways, there’s a valid concern about over-reliance. I believe we’re walking a fine line between leveraging technology for efficiency and becoming overly dependent on it. It’s crucial to strike a balance and maintain our ability to function without constant technological assistance.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: “How do you think everyday items will change in the future?”
Candidate (Band 8-9 response): “I believe we’re heading towards an era of increased integration and connectivity in everyday items. The Internet of Things is likely to become more prevalent, with ordinary objects becoming ‘smart’ and interconnected. We might see clothes that adjust to temperature automatically, or kitchen appliances that order groceries when supplies run low. However, this technological evolution will probably come with its own set of challenges, such as privacy concerns and the need for more robust cybersecurity measures.”
describe a time when you had to stay focused under pressure
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
Indispensable (adjective) /ˌɪndɪˈspensəbl/: Absolutely necessary.
Example: “My smartphone is an indispensable tool for staying organized.”Myriad (noun) /ˈmɪriəd/: A countless or extremely large number.
Example: “The laptop is used for a myriad of tasks in my daily routine.”Embodiment (noun) /ɪmˈbɒdimənt/: A person or thing that represents an idea or quality.
Example: “This device is the embodiment of modern technology.”To revolutionize (verb) /ˌrevəˈluːʃənaɪz/: To change something completely and fundamentally.
Example: “Smartphones have revolutionized the way we communicate.”Fine line (idiom): A very narrow division between two alternatives.
Example: “There’s a fine line between using technology efficiently and becoming overly reliant on it.”
describe a time when you handled a stressful situation
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in IELTS Speaking, particularly when describing everyday items:
- Use a wide range of vocabulary, including less common words and idiomatic expressions.
- Demonstrate your ability to speak at length without noticeable effort.
- Organize your ideas coherently, using appropriate linking words and phrases.
- Provide specific examples to support your points.
- Show your ability to discuss abstract concepts related to the topic.
Remember, practice is key. Regularly describing objects around you in English will help you build confidence and fluency for the exam.
Smartphone on desk as daily item
describe a person who is very positive
By following these guidelines and incorporating rich vocabulary and complex structures, you’ll be well-prepared to excel in describing everyday items in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember, the key is to practice regularly and speak confidently about your experiences with these common objects.
