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Updated on Sep 12, 2024, 17:11
The IELTS Speaking topic "Describe an Item on Which You Spent More Than Expected" requires you to talk about a purchase that exceeded your initial budget, focusing on what the item was, why you spent more, and how you felt about it. When addressing this topic, consider discussing the item’s significance, the reasons for the extra expense, and whether the purchase was ultimately worth it.
Practising this topic helps enhance your IELTS Speaking skills by encouraging you to explain financial decisions, reflect on personal spending habits, and articulate your feelings about the purchase. This exercise improves your ability to discuss practical aspects of life and use descriptive language to convey complex thoughts.
Introduction (Covers: What is it?/How much did you spend on it?)
Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest: (Covers: Why did you buy it?)
Key Highlights (Covers: And explain why you think you spent more than expected.)
Conclusion:
Introduction (Covers: What is it?/How much did you spend on it?)
Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest: (Covers: Why did you buy it?)
Key Highlights (Covers: And explain why you think you spent more than expected.)
Conclusion:
Introduction (Covers: What is it?/How much did you spend on it?)
Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest: (Covers: Why did you buy it?)
Key Highlights (Covers: And explain why you think you spent more than expected.)
Conclusion:
Also Read: Best IELTS Cue Cards for 7+ Band Score
When the cue card section begins, the examiner will hand you a card with a topic and some prompts. You will have one minute to prepare your response and can make notes.
This structure helps you stay organised and covers all topic aspects clearly and logically.
Introduction (Covers: What is it?/How much did you spend on it?)
Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest: (Covers: Why did you buy it?)
Key Highlights (Covers: And explain why you think you spent more than expected.)
Conclusion:
Following this structure will ensure you cover all the essential points while providing a clear and engaging response to the cue card topic.
In the IELTS Speaking test, Part 3 follows the cue card round with a two-way discussion. Here, the examiner asks follow-up questions that delve deeper into the topic introduced in the cue card.
This section evaluates your ability to elaborate on ideas, offer explanations, and engage in a more spontaneous and detailed conversation. The questions posed by the examiner cover a range of topics, from personal opinions to broader perspectives related to the cue card topic, allowing you to demonstrate your ability to discuss and analyse various aspects effectively.
Answer 1: I spent more than I planned because I was drawn to additional features that weren’t part of my original budget. For instance, the laptop I bought had an upgraded model that I felt would be more beneficial in the long run. Although it was more expensive, I thought the investment was worth it for the enhanced performance and longevity.
Answer 2: The additional expense occurred because I was influenced by unexpected costs associated with the item. For example, I didn’t anticipate needing extra accessories like lenses and memory cards while buying the camera. These extras significantly increased the total cost, but I felt they were essential to fully use the camera’s capabilities.
Answer 1: Initially, I felt a bit of regret about the extra expense, but that quickly turned into satisfaction once I started using the item. The additional features proved very useful, and the purchase ultimately felt justified. The improved functionality made me realise that the extra cost was worth it.
Answer 2: I had mixed feelings about the extra expense. While I was pleased with the item's quality, I was concerned about exceeding my budget. However, my concerns diminished as I started using it and saw its benefits. I was reassured that the extra investment contributed to a better overall experience and value.
Answer 1: To avoid overspending, I could have done more research and set a stricter budget before making the purchase. Comparing different models and their features in detail might have helped me stick to my initial plan. Additionally, making a list of must-have features versus nice-to-have extras could have kept me focused.
Answer 2: I could have avoided overspending by being more disciplined about sticking to my budget. Setting a firm limit and avoiding impulsive decisions would have helped. Also, researching thoroughly and planning for additional costs, such as accessories or warranties, might have prevented the unexpected expenses.
Answer 1: Yes, I believe the extra money was justified because the additional features significantly enhanced the item’s functionality and overall performance. The long-term benefits outweighed the initial extra cost. I’ve found that the investment has been worthwhile and has added value to my daily use of the product.
Answer 2: In hindsight, the extra money spent was justified as it provided a higher quality experience and better performance. Although it was more than I planned, the added value and the satisfaction with the item made the extra expense seem reasonable. The investment in quality has proven beneficial in the long run.
Ans. If you encounter a word you don’t understand on the cue card, try to infer its meaning from the context or focus on the other aspects of the topic you understand. It’s important to keep speaking confidently, as the examiner assesses your communication ability, not your vocabulary knowledge.
Ans. To extend your answers in Part 1, add details, examples, or reasons to your responses. Instead of giving short, direct answers, try to elaborate by explaining why you feel a certain way or providing additional information. This will show your ability to communicate more complex ideas.
Ans. While some informal language is acceptable, especially in Part 1, it's important to maintain a semi-formal tone throughout the test, particularly in Parts 2 and 3. Using a mix of formal and informal language can demonstrate your range, but avoid overly casual expressions that might not be appropriate for the context.
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