An unexpected act of kindness is a common topic in IELTS Speaking tests, particularly in Part 2. This theme allows candidates to demonstrate their ability to narrate events, express emotions, and use descriptive language effectively. Similar to describe an unusual event you witnessed, this topic requires careful preparation and structure.
Part 1: Introduction Questions
Common questions examiners may ask:
- Do you think people are generally kind to each other in your country?
- What acts of kindness have you experienced recently?
- Why do you think some people are kinder than others?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I believe people in my country are inherently generous and compassionate. Just last week, I witnessed several instances where strangers went out of their way to help elderly people cross busy streets. I think kindness often stems from empathy and upbringing.”
Part 2: Cue Card
Talk about an unexpected act of kindness you witnessed:
- When and where it happened
- Who was involved
- What the act of kindness was
- How it affected those involved
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to share a profoundly moving experience I witnessed last winter. I was at a busy coffee shop when I noticed a homeless man shivering in the cold outside. What happened next was truly remarkable.
A young businessman, impeccably dressed in a suit, not only bought the homeless man a hot meal but also gave him his own winter coat. The spontaneous gesture left everyone in the vicinity speechless. The businessman then sat down and spent about 15 minutes talking with the man, treating him with genuine respect and dignity.
What struck me most was the way he handled the situation – there was no hint of superiority or condescension. The homeless man’s eyes welled up with tears as he expressed his gratitude. This incident was particularly touching because it demonstrated how a simple act of kindness can transcend social barriers.
The impact was visible throughout the coffee shop – several other customers were visibly moved, and I noticed some even started buying extra coffee and food for other homeless people in the area. It sparked a chain reaction of kindness that lasted throughout the day.”
Similar heartwarming stories can be found in accounts of describe an occasion when you helped a stranger.
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“I want to talk about something nice I saw last winter. I was in a coffee shop and saw a homeless man outside who was very cold. A businessman who was wearing a nice suit bought him food and gave him his coat. He also talked to the man for a while.
It was very kind because most people usually ignore homeless people. The homeless man was very happy and thankful. Other people in the coffee shop saw this and started helping others too. It made me feel good to see such kindness.”
Businessman showing unexpected kindness to homeless person
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Q: Why do you think some people hesitate to help strangers?
A (Band 8-9): “There are multiple factors at play. People might be wary of potential scams or concerned about their personal safety. Additionally, in our increasingly individualistic society, many people have become somewhat desensitized to others’ struggles. However, I believe these barriers can be overcome through education and positive examples.”
Q: How has social media influenced acts of kindness?
A (Band 8-9): “Social media has had a paradoxical effect on acts of kindness. While it has amplified awareness of charitable acts and can inspire others to follow suit, similar to describe a time when you stood up for someone else, it has also led to some people performing kind acts purely for online validation.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
- Inherently generous: Naturally kind-hearted /ɪnˈhɪrəntli ˈdʒenərəs/
- Spontaneous gesture: Unplanned act /spɒnˈteɪniəs ˈdʒestʃə/
- Transcend social barriers: Go beyond social divisions /trænˈsend ˈsəʊʃəl ˈbæriəz/
- Spark a chain reaction: Initiate a series of events /spɑːk ə tʃeɪn riˈækʃən/
- Visibly moved: Noticeably affected emotionally /ˈvɪzəbli muːvd/
Remember to practice these phrases in context and focus on natural delivery rather than memorization.
