When discussing experiences of helping family members in IELTS Speaking, candidates often encounter this topic in Part 2 and Part 3. Similar to describe a family tradition you appreciate, this topic tests your ability to narrate personal experiences while showcasing vocabulary related to family relationships and assistance.
IELTS Speaking Guide for Describing Family Help
Part 1: Introduction Questions
Common questions examiners may ask:
- Do you often help your family members?
- What kind of help do you usually provide to your family?
- Who do you usually ask for help in your family?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I frequently assist my family members, particularly my elderly grandparents. I make it a point to help them with technological issues, like setting up their smartphones or teaching them how to make video calls. It’s tremendously rewarding to see them master new skills.”
Part 2: Cue Card
Describe an occasion when you helped a family member
You should say:
- Who you helped
- What help you provided
- Why they needed help
- How you felt about helping them
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to share a memorable experience when I helped my grandmother learn to use video calling applications during the pandemic. As someone who’s tech-savvy, I felt it was my responsibility to help her stay connected with our family members living abroad.
The situation arose when international travel restrictions prevented our relatives from visiting. My grandmother was feeling particularly isolated, so I took the initiative to teach her how to use various communication platforms.
I dedicated several weekends to walking her through the basics, starting with turning on the device to making actual video calls. What made it particularly challenging was breaking down complex technological concepts into simple, understandable terms.
The experience was incredibly fulfilling. Seeing her face light up when she successfully made her first video call to my cousin in Canada was priceless. This experience has strengthened our bond significantly, and now she’s quite proficient at using these applications independently.”
Similar to describe a time when you had to give advice, this situation required patience and clear communication.
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“I want to talk about when I helped my grandmother with technology. She needed help using video calls during Covid-19. I showed her how to use the computer and make calls. It was sometimes difficult because she didn’t understand technology well. I felt happy when she learned how to make calls by herself.”
Part 3: Discussion Questions
- Why do you think some people are reluctant to ask for help?
- How has technology changed the way family members help each other?
- What are the benefits of helping family members?
Much like describe a risk you took that had a positive outcome, discussing help within families can reveal personal growth experiences.
Sample Answers (Band 8-9):
“People’s reluctance to seek assistance often stems from their desire to maintain independence and avoid appearing vulnerable. In many cultures, there’s an inherent pressure to demonstrate self-sufficiency, which can act as a barrier to asking for help.”
Key Vocabulary and Expressions
- To take the initiative: To be the first to take action
- Tech-savvy: Knowledgeable about technology
- To break down: To explain something complex in simpler terms
- Tremendously rewarding: Extremely satisfying
- Proficient: Skilled and competent
Examiner’s Tips:
- Use specific examples rather than general statements
- Incorporate appropriate idiomatic expressions
- Demonstrate range in vocabulary and grammar structures
- Show genuine emotion when describing personal experiences
- Practice speaking for exactly 2 minutes for Part 2
For more speaking practice, you might find describe a time when you planned an event or gathering helpful for developing your narrative skills.
