In IELTS Speaking, candidates are often asked to describe unusual or memorable events they have witnessed. This topic allows examiners to assess your ability to narrate a story, use descriptive language, and express your thoughts and feelings about a unique experience. 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 about unusual events or experiences. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:
Have you ever witnessed an unusual event?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I have. Last year, I saw a flash mob in the city center. It was quite surprising to see a group of people suddenly start dancing in the middle of the street.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely. One of the most extraordinary events I’ve witnessed was a spontaneous flash mob in the heart of our city. It was truly captivating to observe how a seemingly ordinary day transformed into a vibrant spectacle of synchronised dance and music, catching everyone off guard and bringing smiles to countless faces.
Do you enjoy hearing about unusual events from others?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I do. I find it interesting to learn about unique experiences that other people have had. It’s often entertaining and sometimes educational.
Band 8-9 Answer:
I’m absolutely fascinated by accounts of unusual occurrences shared by others. Not only do these stories provide entertainment, but they also offer valuable insights into different perspectives and experiences. I find that such narratives often challenge my own worldview and broaden my understanding of the unpredictable nature of life.
Part 2: Long Turn
In this section, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic to speak about for 1-2 minutes. Here’s a sample cue card related to describing an unusual event:
Cue Card
Describe an unusual event you witnessed
You should say:
- What the event was
- When and where it happened
- Who was involved
- And explain why you found it unusual
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
I’d like to describe an extraordinary event I witnessed last summer – a rare total solar eclipse that occurred in my hometown.
This celestial phenomenon took place on August 21st, 2017, and was visible from various parts of North America. I was fortunate enough to experience it from a hilltop park in my city, which offered an unobstructed view of the sky.
The event drew thousands of spectators from all walks of life. Scientists, amateur astronomers, families, and curious individuals like myself all gathered to witness this once-in-a-lifetime occurrence. Local authorities and astronomy clubs had organized viewing areas and were distributing special eclipse glasses to ensure everyone could safely observe the spectacle.
What made this event truly unusual was its profound impact on the environment and the people around me. As the moon gradually obscured the sun, the world around us transformed. The temperature dropped noticeably, and an eerie twilight descended upon us in the middle of the day. The most awe-inspiring moment was when the sun was completely covered, revealing the sun’s corona – a sight that left everyone in stunned silence.
The collective sense of wonder among the crowd was palpable. Strangers were bonding over this shared experience, excitedly discussing the scientific aspects and the sheer beauty of what we were witnessing. It was a humbling reminder of our place in the universe and the magnificent celestial events that occur beyond our daily lives.
What struck me as particularly unusual was how this event momentarily united people from diverse backgrounds. In those few minutes of totality, all differences seemed to fade away as we collectively marveled at this natural wonder. It was a powerful demonstration of how extraordinary occurrences can bring people together and provide a shared sense of awe and appreciation for the world around us.
Follow-up Questions
- How do unusual events impact local communities?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Unusual events can bring people together and create a sense of excitement in local communities. They often give people something to talk about and can boost local businesses if they attract visitors.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Unusual events can have a profound and multifaceted impact on local communities. Firstly, they often serve as a catalyst for social cohesion, bringing diverse groups of people together through a shared experience. This can foster a stronger sense of community identity and pride. Additionally, such events can provide a significant economic boost, particularly if they attract tourists or media attention, benefiting local businesses and potentially stimulating long-term investment in the area. Moreover, unusual occurrences can put a locality on the map, enhancing its reputation and potentially leading to increased interest in the region for future events or tourism.
- Do you think the media exaggerates unusual events?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I think the media sometimes exaggerates unusual events to make them more interesting. They might focus on the most dramatic aspects to attract more viewers or readers.
Band 8-9 Answer:
While the media plays a crucial role in informing the public, there’s no denying that there’s often a tendency to sensationalize unusual events. This propensity stems from the competitive nature of the news industry and the need to capture audience attention in an information-saturated world. Media outlets might amplify certain aspects of an event or focus disproportionately on its most dramatic elements, potentially skewing public perception. However, it’s important to note that this isn’t universally true across all media platforms, and many reputable sources strive for balanced reporting. The onus is increasingly on consumers to critically evaluate news sources and seek out multiple perspectives to form a well-rounded understanding of unusual events.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this part, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:
How do you think technology has changed the way we experience unusual events?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Technology has made it easier for us to record and share unusual events. We can now use our smartphones to capture videos and photos, and share them on social media instantly. This means more people can see these events, even if they weren’t there in person.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Technology has revolutionized our experience of unusual events in several significant ways. Firstly, the ubiquity of smartphones with high-quality cameras has transformed every individual into a potential documentarian, capable of capturing and instantly sharing extraordinary occurrences. This has led to a democratization of information, where news of unusual events can spread globally within minutes, often outpacing traditional media channels.
Moreover, advancements in live streaming technology have enabled real-time, global participation in events that were once limited to local audiences. This has fostered a sense of collective experience on an unprecedented scale, allowing people worldwide to witness and engage with unusual events as they unfold.
Additionally, virtual and augmented reality technologies are beginning to offer immersive experiences of unusual events, allowing people to feel as if they’re present at a scene, even from thousands of miles away. This has the potential to revolutionize how we perceive and interact with extraordinary occurrences, blurring the lines between physical presence and virtual participation.
However, this technological mediation of unusual events also raises important questions about authenticity and information overload. The ease of manipulating digital content can sometimes lead to the spread of misinformation, requiring viewers to develop stronger critical thinking skills when consuming such content.
Do you believe that witnessing unusual events can change people’s perspectives on life?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I think unusual events can change how people see life. They might make people realize that unexpected things can happen, and this could make them more open-minded or appreciative of their everyday experiences.
Band 8-9 Answer:
I firmly believe that witnessing unusual events has the potential to profoundly alter an individual’s perspective on life. Such experiences often serve as catalysts for introspection and reevaluation of one’s beliefs, priorities, and understanding of the world.
Firstly, unusual events can shatter our preconceived notions about what is possible or probable, encouraging a more open-minded approach to life. They remind us of the vast realm of possibilities that exist beyond our daily routines and expectations, potentially inspiring us to embrace new experiences or take calculated risks.
Moreover, extraordinary occurrences often have a way of putting our personal concerns into perspective. Witnessing a rare natural phenomenon or an unexpected act of human kindness can remind us of our place in the grand scheme of things, fostering humility and gratitude.
Unusual events can also challenge our problem-solving abilities and adaptability, potentially boosting our confidence in dealing with unexpected situations. This can lead to increased resilience and a more flexible approach to life’s challenges.
Furthermore, shared unusual experiences can create strong bonds between individuals, enhancing our sense of community and interconnectedness. This can lead to a shift in how we view our relationships and our role in society.
However, it’s important to note that the impact of unusual events on one’s perspective is not universal. The degree of change often depends on the individual’s existing worldview, personal experiences, and their capacity for reflection. While some may experience a profound shift in their outlook, others might integrate the experience into their existing perspective with minimal alteration.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To achieve a high score in IELTS Speaking when describing unusual events, incorporate sophisticated vocabulary and phrases. Here are some examples:
-
Unprecedented /ʌnˈpresɪdentɪd/ (adjective): Never known or done before.
Example: The unusual weather patterns were unprecedented in our region. -
Phenomenon /fəˈnɒmɪnən/ (noun): A fact or situation that is observed to exist or happen, especially one whose cause or explanation is in question.
Example: The aurora borealis is a natural phenomenon that never fails to amaze viewers. -
Extraordinary /ɪkˈstrɔːdnri/ (adjective): Very unusual or remarkable.
Example: Witnessing the rescue of a stranded whale was an extraordinary experience. -
Surreal /səˈrɪəl/ (adjective): Having the qualities of surrealism; bizarre.
Example: The entire scene felt surreal, as if we were part of a dream. -
Awe-inspiring /ˈɔː ɪnˌspaɪərɪŋ/ (adjective): Inspiring great admiration or awe.
Example: The massive lightning storm was both terrifying and awe-inspiring. -
Pivotal /ˈpɪvətl/ (adjective): Of crucial importance in relation to the development or success of something else.
Example: That unusual encounter became a pivotal moment in my life.
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in describing unusual events in IELTS Speaking:
- Practice narrating stories with a clear structure (beginning, middle, end).
- Develop a rich vocabulary for describing emotions and sensory experiences.
- Use a variety of descriptive adjectives to make your account vivid and engaging.
- Incorporate idiomatic expressions appropriately to demonstrate language fluency.
- Reflect on the significance of the event to showcase critical thinking skills.
- Maintain eye contact with the examiner and use natural gestures to enhance your storytelling.
- Pace yourself to ensure you cover all aspects within the given time.
Remember, the key to a high score is not just in what you say, but how you say it. Aim for fluency, coherence, and a natural conversational style while incorporating sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures.
describe a famous building or monument you visited can be another interesting topic to practice, as it shares similar descriptive elements with unusual events.
By following these guidelines and consistently practicing, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle any question about unusual events in your IELTS Speaking test.