Describe Something That You Did With Someone: IELTS Speaking Cue Card Sample Answers

The IELTS speaking cue card section often invites test-takers to delve into personal experiences. Describing an activity done with someone else can be a golden opportunity to showcase your ability to recount a story, articulate emotions, and reflect on shared experiences – all in fluent and coherent English. For IELTS aspirants aiming to excel, such recounting requires a blend of narrative flair, rich vocabulary, and the ability to connect with the listener. Let’s explore how to craft a compelling response.

Sample Answer:

Recently, I embarked on a culinary adventure with my grandmother, which turned out to be an enlightening bonding experience. It was not just about cooking but also about weaving a tapestry of family history and tradition. On a sunny Saturday afternoon, we decided to bake her famous apple pie – a recipe passed down through generations.

Our little project began with the selection of the ripest apples from the local farmers' market. We then proceeded to her cozy kitchen, which was a familiar haven filled with the aromas of spices and warmth. As we peeled, cored, and sliced the apples, she narrated stories of her childhood, infusing life into long-gone relatives through her vivid descriptions.

The act of mixing the ingredients became a metaphor for our family's blend of cultures and histories. With each stir of the wooden spoon, we mixed the old with the new, just as our family's legacy intertwined with the present. When the pie was finally in the oven, we sat back with cups of tea, waiting as the sweet smell of baking filled the room. That afternoon, we created more than a pie; we created memories, fortified bonds, and celebrated heritage.

Follow-up Questions & Answers:

Q1: What did you learn from this experience with your grandmother?

A1: This culinary journey was a lesson in patience and appreciation. It taught me that cooking is more than a daily chore; it's an art that tells a story and a tradition that keeps memories alive.

Q2: How has this experience influenced your relationship with your grandmother?

A2: The experience has undoubtedly deepened our bond. It allowed us to share not just time but also stories, laughter, and wisdom, enriching our relationship in ways that I will always treasure.

Tips for Cracking the IELTS Speaking Test:

Tip 1: Personalize your response. Connect the task with your own experiences to speak more naturally and fluently.

Tip 2: Use a range of vocabulary. Describe emotions, sensations, and actions with varied language to demonstrate lexical resource.

Tip 3: Structure your response. Organize your thoughts with a clear beginning, middle, and end to maintain coherence.

Tip 4: Practice speaking clearly. Clarity in pronunciation and intonation can greatly impact your score.

Tip 5: Manage your time. Aim to speak for about two minutes, giving enough detail without digressing.

Tip 6: Stay relaxed. A calm demeanor can help your speech flow more smoothly and show confidence.

Tip 7: Be prepared for follow-up questions. They often require you to explain, justify, or expand on your cue card topic.

Describing an activity you did with someone allows you to showcase the depth of your English language skills and your ability to engage with memories and articulate their significance. Remember, the IELTS speaking section is not just testing your English; it's an opportunity to tell a story and connect with the examiner. With the right preparation, personal anecdotes, and a strategic approach, you can achieve a performance that not only resonates emotionally but also ranks highly in linguistic proficiency.