The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about shared experiences, making “describe something that you did with someone” a common topic. This theme allows examiners to assess your ability to narrate events, express emotions, and use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures. Let’s explore how to excel in this type of question across all parts of the IELTS Speaking test.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about activities you do with others. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
- “Do you prefer to do things alone or with others?”
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Well, it really depends on the activity. For work-related tasks, I often prefer to work independently as it allows me to focus intensely and be more productive. However, when it comes to leisure activities, I thoroughly enjoy spending time with friends and family. There’s something special about sharing experiences and creating memories together.”
- “What kind of activities do you usually do with your friends?”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“My friends and I are quite adventurous, so we often engage in outdoor activities. We’re particularly fond of hiking in nearby mountains, which gives us a chance to bond while appreciating nature. Additionally, we frequently organize game nights at someone’s house, where we play board games or video games. These gatherings are not just fun but also help us unwind from our busy schedules and catch up with each other’s lives.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:
Describe something that you did with someone recently
You should say:
- Who you did it with
- What you did
- Where you did it
- And explain how you felt about it
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about a recent experience I had with my best friend, Sarah. We decided to embark on a weekend camping trip to a nearby national park, which was something we had been planning for months.
We set off early on a Saturday morning, driving for about two hours to reach the campsite. Upon arrival, we worked together to set up our tent and organize our supplies. The teamwork required for these tasks really strengthened our bond.
Throughout the day, we went on several hikes, exploring the beautiful trails and taking in the breathtaking scenery. We even managed to spot some local wildlife, including deer and various bird species. As night fell, we gathered around the campfire, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories under the stars.
The entire experience was incredibly refreshing and rejuvenating. Being away from the hustle and bustle of city life and immersing ourselves in nature gave us a chance to disconnect from technology and reconnect with each other. I felt a great sense of peace and contentment throughout the trip.
Moreover, overcoming the challenges of outdoor living, like dealing with the chilly night air or figuring out how to cook on a portable stove, gave me a sense of accomplishment. It was also heartwarming to see how well Sarah and I worked together, supporting each other through every aspect of the trip.
Overall, this camping experience left me feeling invigorated and grateful for the strong friendship I share with Sarah. It reminded me of the importance of taking time out of our busy lives to nurture relationships and create lasting memories.”
Possible follow-up questions:
- Do you often go on trips with friends?
- What are the benefits of traveling with others?
Sample answer for question 2 (Band 8-9):
“Traveling with others offers numerous advantages. Firstly, it enhances the overall experience by allowing you to share memorable moments and create lasting bonds. Additionally, it can be more cost-effective as you can split expenses for accommodation and transportation. From a practical standpoint, traveling in a group often provides a sense of security, especially in unfamiliar locations. Moreover, companions can offer different perspectives, potentially broadening your horizons and encouraging you to try new things you might not have considered on your own.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner might ask more abstract questions related to shared activities. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
- “How has technology changed the way people spend time together?”
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Technology has significantly impacted how people interact and spend time together. On one hand, it has made it easier for people to stay connected over long distances through video calls and social media. This allows friends and family to maintain relationships even when they’re physically apart. However, it has also led to some negative effects. For instance, many people now spend time together physically but are mentally distracted by their devices, reducing the quality of their interactions. Additionally, some traditional shared activities, like board games or outdoor sports, have been replaced by digital alternatives, which may lack the same level of personal connection.”
- “What are the advantages of working on projects as a team rather than individually?”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Working on projects as a team offers several significant advantages over individual work. Firstly, it allows for a diversity of skills and perspectives, which can lead to more innovative solutions and comprehensive problem-solving. Team members can complement each other’s strengths and compensate for individual weaknesses.
Moreover, teamwork often results in increased productivity as tasks can be delegated according to each member’s expertise. This division of labor can lead to more efficient completion of complex projects. Collaboration also fosters a sense of shared responsibility, which can boost motivation and commitment to the project’s success.
Another crucial benefit is the opportunity for learning and personal growth. Team members can acquire new skills from their colleagues and gain insights into different working styles and approaches. This exchange of knowledge and experience can be invaluable for professional development.
Lastly, working in a team can be more enjoyable and less stressful than working alone, as it provides social interaction and mutual support. This positive working environment can lead to higher job satisfaction and better overall results.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
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To embark on (phrasal verb) – /ɪmˈbɑːrk ɒn/ – to start a new project or activity
Example: “We decided to embark on a challenging hiking expedition.” -
To strengthen one’s bond (idiom) – /ˈstreŋθən wʌnz bɒnd/ – to improve a relationship
Example: “Traveling together really strengthened our bond as friends.” -
Rejuvenating (adjective) – /rɪˈdʒuːvəneɪtɪŋ/ – making one feel younger or more energetic
Example: “The weekend getaway was incredibly rejuvenating for both of us.” -
To disconnect from (phrasal verb) – /ˌdɪskəˈnekt frəm/ – to separate oneself from something
Example: “It was refreshing to disconnect from technology during our trip.” -
To broaden one’s horizons (idiom) – /ˈbrɔːdn wʌnz həˈraɪznz/ – to expand one’s knowledge or experience
Example: “Traveling with others can help broaden your horizons and introduce you to new perspectives.”
Describe an unforgettable trip you took with family or friends for more inspiration on discussing shared experiences.
Tips from an Examiner
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Practice narrating shared experiences regularly, focusing on describing not just the events, but also your emotions and the impact of the experience.
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Use a variety of tenses accurately to show the sequence of events and add depth to your narrative.
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Incorporate idiomatic expressions and advanced vocabulary naturally into your responses to demonstrate language proficiency.
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When discussing abstract ideas in Part 3, try to provide specific examples to support your points and show critical thinking.
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Pay attention to your pronunciation and intonation, as these contribute significantly to your fluency score.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Describe a skill you taught to someone to practice explaining processes and interactions with others, which can be useful for this topic as well.
By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss shared experiences in your IELTS Speaking test, potentially boosting your score significantly.