Scorify.uzThe cue card
Describe a time when you had to wait for something special.
You should say:
- what you waited for
- how long you waited
- what you did while waiting
- and explain how you felt
Band 7 sample answer
I would like to talk about a time when I waited for the results of my first IELTS test. The exam was in October, and the results were published thirteen days later.
During that time, I tried to keep myself busy. I went to university as usual, met friends and even started a small course in web design. But every day I checked my email several times, hoping the result had arrived.
I felt nervous and impatient, especially in the last three days. I was imagining different scenarios, from a very good score to a disappointing one, and I could not concentrate on anything for long.
My mother was very supportive during that period. She cooked my favourite meals and kept telling me that whatever the result, I had done my best. Her calm attitude helped me stay positive, and I started to understand that waiting is easier when you have people who believe in you.
Finally, the email came, and I got a score that was better than I had expected. The experience taught me that waiting is part of success, and that worrying does not change the result.
About 190 words, roughly 1 minutes of natural speech.
Key vocabulary
- on edge — nervous and unable to relax
- impatient — unable to wait calmly
- keep myself busy — stay occupied
- anxious — worried
- anticipation — excitement about something to come
- disappointing — not as good as hoped
- come through — arrive
Tips for this cue card
- Describe feelings and actions during the wait.
- Use past perfect for earlier events.
- End with the result and a lesson.
Part 3 follow-up questions
Are people less patient today?
Idea: Yes, instant technology has made us used to quick results.
What are the benefits of patience?
Idea: It reduces stress and helps people make better decisions.
Which situations make people wait for a long time?
Idea: Hospitals, public offices and official results.
More discussion questions with full answers: IELTS Speaking Part 3 topics.
Study guides
How Is IELTS Scored in Speaking and Writing? Criteria, Weighting and Rounding
The short answer first, then the Speaking and Writing criteria tables, how Task 1 and Task 2 combine and how the overall band is rounded.
IELTS Speaking Band Descriptors Explained in Plain English
The IELTS Speaking test is marked on four criteria. Here is what each one means at bands 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9, with short examples you can compare with your own answers.
IELTS Speaking Part 2: How Many Minutes to Speak (With a Practice Timer)
How long Part 2 lasts (1 minute to prepare, 1–2 minutes to speak), a practice timer, a four-step structure and a model answer.