When discussing smiles and social interactions in IELTS Speaking, candidates often encounter questions that explore both personal experiences and broader social perspectives. This topic frequently appears in all three parts of the speaking test, making it essential to prepare comprehensive responses.
Part 1: Common Questions and Sample Answers
Similar to how we approach describe a moment when you felt very thankful, let’s examine some typical questions about smiling:
Question 1: When do people usually smile at others?
Band 8-9 Answer:
“Well, people typically smile in various social contexts, particularly when they want to establish rapport or show friendliness. For instance, it’s quite common to smile when greeting colleagues at work or when encountering neighbors in your community. I personally believe smiling serves as a universal gesture of goodwill.”
Question 2: Do you think people smile more today than in the past?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“I think people probably smile about the same amount, but maybe we’re more aware of smiling now because of social media. In my country, young people often smile when taking photos for Instagram or when meeting friends.”
Part 2: Cue Card Task
Like describe a memory that makes you happy, here’s a related cue card:
Describe a situation when someone’s smile made you feel better
You should say:
- Who this person was
- When this happened
- Where you were
- And explain why their smile made you feel better
Band 8-9 Sample Answer:
“I’d like to share an unforgettable experience about my grandmother’s smile during my first day at university. I was feeling incredibly nervous and apprehensive about starting this new chapter in my life. As I was preparing to leave home that morning, my grandmother gave me this wonderfully warm and reassuring smile that instantly lifted my spirits. Her smile had this remarkable ability to make me feel that everything would work out fine.
What made it particularly meaningful was how it reflected her unwavering support and belief in me. It wasn’t just a simple gesture; it was loaded with years of love and understanding. This genuine expression of care helped me overcome my anxiety and face the day with renewed confidence.”
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Following the pattern of describe an experience that made you laugh, here are some typical follow-up questions:
Q: How do different cultures view smiling in public?
Band 8-9 Answer:
“Cultural perspectives on smiling vary significantly across societies. In Western cultures, smiling is often seen as a sign of openness and approachability, whereas in some Asian cultures, people might be more reserved with their smiles, particularly in formal settings. This cultural diversity in expression reflects deeper societal values and norms about emotional display.”
Q: Has social media influenced how people smile and interact?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Yes, I think social media has changed how people smile and interact. People are more conscious about their smiles because they take lots of photos for social media. Sometimes this makes interactions less natural because everyone wants to look perfect in pictures.”
Key Vocabulary and Expressions for High Scores
- Facial expressions: /ˈfeɪʃəl ɪkˈspreʃənz/ – The various ways we show emotions on our face
- Genuine smile: /ˈdʒenjuɪn smaɪl/ – An authentic, real smile
- Break the ice: /breɪk ði aɪs/ – To make people feel more comfortable in a social situation
- Radiate positivity: /ˈreɪdieɪt ˌpɒzəˈtɪvəti/ – To show and spread good feelings
- Warm gesture: /wɔːm ˈdʒestʃə/ – A friendly action
Practice using these expressions naturally, as demonstrated in describe a friend who has a great sense of humor, to enhance your speaking performance.