A smile can convey warmth, happiness, and positivity – qualities that IELTS examiners look for in candidates’ responses. Let’s explore how to effectively answer questions about smiling while demonstrating sophisticated language use and natural fluency, similar to how we discuss what is the most important thing in friendship ielts speaking.
IELTS speaking examiner and candidate having a professional conversation
Part 1: Introduction and Interview Questions
Common examiner questions about smiling include:
- Do you like to smile?
- When do people usually smile?
- Do you think people should smile more?
- Is it important to smile at work?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I absolutely believe in the power of a genuine smile. When I interact with others, I naturally tend to smile as it helps create a positive atmosphere. Research has shown that smiling not only lifts our mood but also releases endorphins, making us feel better physically and mentally. Like when do people smile to others ielts speaking, I find myself smiling most often during heartwarming moments with family and friends.”
Part 2: Cue Card
Describe a time when your smile made someone happy
You should say:
- When it happened
- Where you were
- Who was involved
- And explain why your smile made them happy
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I vividly recall an incident from last summer when I was volunteering at a local children’s hospital. Similar to describe a moment when you felt very thankful, this experience left a lasting impression on me.
I was assigned to the pediatric ward where I met a young patient, Emma, who was particularly withdrawn and hadn’t spoken much since her admission. Taking a gentle approach, I would smile warmly whenever I entered her room. Gradually, she began responding to my positive demeanor.
The turning point came when she finally smiled back one morning. Her parents were overwhelmed with emotion, explaining that it was her first smile in weeks. This simple gesture had broken through her shell and marked the beginning of her emotional recovery.
What struck me most was how something as simple as a consistent, genuine smile could have such a profound impact on someone’s healing journey.”
Healthcare professional interacting positively with young patient
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Q1: How does smiling affect workplace relationships?
Band 8-9 Response:
“Research consistently demonstrates that smiling in professional settings contributes significantly to workplace harmony. Just as describe a song that you associate with a happy memory, a smile can trigger positive associations and create lasting impressions. Moreover, it facilitates better communication and fosters trust among colleagues.”
Key Vocabulary and Expressions:
-
Facial expressions /ˈfeɪʃəl ɪkˈsprɛʃənz/
- Definition: Movements of facial muscles to convey emotions
- Example: “Her facial expressions were always warm and welcoming.”
-
Genuine smile /ˈdʒɛnjuɪn smaɪl/
- Definition: An authentic, heartfelt smile
- Example: “You could tell it was a genuine smile by the way it reached his eyes.”
-
Break the ice /breɪk ðə aɪs/
- Definition: To reduce tension in social situations
- Example: “Her friendly smile helped break the ice at the meeting.”
Examiner’s Tips:
- Maintain natural eye contact while smiling appropriately
- Use varied vocabulary to describe emotions and reactions
- Support answers with personal experiences and examples
- Demonstrate understanding of cultural differences in smiling and body language
Just as describe an important friendship in your life, discussing smiling requires genuine engagement and emotional intelligence in your responses.
