IELTS HUB
Full test with Band 9 answers

Speaking test #584

Part 1 · Interview

4 to 5 minutes. The examiner asks about you and familiar topics.

Introduction · Q1

Can you tell me your full name?

Introduction · Q2

Where are you from?

Introduction · Q3

Do you work or are you a student?

Headphones · Q1

Do you often wear headphones to listen to something? [Why/Why not?

?]y Yes, because wearing the headphones can provide me with a quite environment. And I’m the kind of person who cannot stand the noisy sound especially when I need concentration.

Headphones · Q2

Do you find headphones comfortable to wear? [Why/Why not?

?] Yes, but not always. At first I found it a little uncomfortable but when I’m used to it I often ignore its existence.

Headphones · Q3

In what situation would you never wear headphones? [Why/Why not?

?] Firstly, when I need to show my respect such as in the classroom when the teacher is teaching. Secondly, I need to take my headphones off when it’s banned to take them on, for instance when the plane is taking off or preparing to land.

Headphones · Q4

How popular is it to wear headphones in your country? [Why/Why not?

?] That depends on the people of different ages. For instance, when you are in a university where lots of young people live in, you will find it’s very popular. But, if you take a glance at the morning part where the local old people gather, it’s really a rare thing for you to have the headphones on.

Part 2 · Cue card
Experience Past DiscoveryLost and FoundUnexpected Encounters

You will have to talk about the topic for one to two minutes. You have one minute to think about what you are going to say. You can make some notes to help you if you wish.

Describe a situation/time when you found something

You should say:

  • What did you find?
  • Where did you find it?
  • How did you feel when you found it?
  • What did you do after finding it?
250 words · 4 paragraphs
Point 1

What did you find?

I vividly remember a moment when I found a precious family heirloom that had been missing for years. It was a delicate antique necklace passed down through generations, adorned with intricate designs and sparkling gemstones. The necklace held immense sentimental value for my family, making its discovery all the more significant.

Point 2

Where did you find it?

The serendipitous moment took place in the attic of my ancestral home during a routine cleaning session. As I rummaged through old boxes and dusty trunks, my eyes fell upon a small, forgotten jewelry box tucked away in a corner. Opening it, I was stunned to see the shimmering necklace nestled inside, reflecting the soft light streaming in from a nearby window.

Point 3

How did you feel when you found it?

The rush of emotions that swept over me at that moment was overwhelming - a mix of joy, relief, and nostalgia. I felt a deep sense of connection to my family's past and an immense gratitude for having stumbled upon this cherished heirloom. It was as if I had unearthed a piece of my own history, linking me to my ancestors in a profound and tangible way.

Point 4

What did you do after finding it?

After finding the necklace, I carefully inspected it, marveling at its beauty and intricate craftsmanship. I then shared the discovery with my family, who were equally thrilled and touched by the reappearance of the long-lost heirloom. We decided to have the necklace restored and displayed it proudly in our home, where it serves as a constant reminder of our shared heritage and the enduring bonds that connect us across time.

The Band 9 answer in numbers
Words
250
Sentences
12
Words per sentence
20.8
Speaking time
about 1.9 min

Counted at 130 words a minute. The exam gives you one to two minutes.

Part 3 · Discussion

4 to 5 minutes. The examiner asks broader questions linked to the cue card topic.

Discussion · Q1

How do the situations of discovering something differ from losing it?

That's a fascinating question! When you find something, it often comes with a sense of serendipity or unexpected joy, as you stumble upon something you thought was lost forever or never knew you needed. On the other hand, losing something usually brings about feelings of frustration or anxiety, especially if it’s something valuable or sentimental. The circumstances of finding something can be quite spontaneous, often occurring in a moment of distraction or chance, whereas losing something can result from carelessness or oversight. Ultimately, the emotional experience tied to each situation is quite different, highlighting our attachment to the things we value.

Discussion · Q2

Do you think finding something is more joyful than losing it? What do you think?

That's a fascinating question! I believe that finding something can indeed bring immense joy, often because it evokes a sense of serendipity or unexpected delight. For instance, when someone stumbles upon a long-lost item, it can trigger a wave of nostalgia and happy memories, which is incredibly fulfilling. However, I think losing something can also lead to profound insights or personal growth; it often prompts us to reflect on our priorities and what truly matters in life. So, while the thrill of finding something is undeniably exhilarating, I wouldn't underestimate the lessons and emotional resilience that can arise from loss. Ultimately, both experiences contribute uniquely to our emotional landscape.

Discussion · Q3

How important is it to find something valuable in a person's life?

Finding something valuable can be profoundly significant in a person's life, often acting as a catalyst for personal growth and transformation. When individuals stumble upon something they truly cherish—be it a treasured memento, a hidden talent, or even an unexpected opportunity—it can spark a newfound sense of purpose and direction. This experience not only enhances their emotional well-being but can also lead to a shift in priorities, motivating them to pursue their passions more fervently. Moreover, the joy of discovery can foster stronger connections with others, as people often share their valuable finds and stories, enriching their social lives. Ultimately, such moments can be life-altering, reminding us of the beauty and potential that exists in the world around us.

Discussion · Q4

Why do you think people usually feel a special connection to things they discover?

People often attach sentimental value to items because they serve as tangible reminders of special moments or relationships in their lives. For instance, a simple trinket from a childhood vacation can evoke a flood of cherished memories and emotions. This emotional connection is rooted in our experiences and the stories we associate with those items, making them much more than just physical objects. Additionally, in a fast-paced world, these items can offer a sense of nostalgia and comfort, reminding us of simpler times or loved ones who may no longer be around. Ultimately, it's fascinating how a single object can encapsulate a whole world of feelings and memories!

Discussion · Q5

How could finding things be different in the future with new technology?

With the rapid pace of technological advancement, the experience of finding things is likely to transform dramatically. For instance, we’re already seeing the rise of smart assistants that can locate items for us using voice commands, which could evolve into even more sophisticated systems that utilize augmented reality to help us visualize where our belongings are. Imagine wearing smart glasses that guide you directly to your misplaced keys or wallet, turning what once was a frustrating hunt into a seamless experience. Furthermore, advancements in machine learning could lead to personalized tracking systems that anticipate our needs, making it easier to find items before we even realize we need them. Overall, the future promises a more efficient and less stressful way to locate our possessions, which is definitely something to look forward to!

Discussion · Q6

What can someone do to boost their chances of finding lost things?

To increase the chances of finding lost items, there are several practical steps one can take. First and foremost, maintaining a systematic approach is crucial. For instance, retracing your steps can often jog your memory and lead you back to where you last had the item. Additionally, creating a detailed list of places you’ve been and items you had with you can help narrow down the search area significantly. Another effective tactic is to stay calm and focused; panicking can cloud your judgment and make it harder to remember where you might have left something. Utilizing technology, like location-tracking apps for valuable items, can also be a game-changer. Lastly, enlisting the help of friends or family can provide a fresh perspective and increase the collective effort in the search, making it more likely that the lost item will be found.

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